Flash memory is the backbone of embedded systems. It holds everything from bootloaders and applications to critical configuration data. But have you ever wondered why internal flash is divided into banks? To understand why flash memory is divided into banks, we first need to understand what a flash bank is 🔍 What Are Flash […]
Why Flash Memory is Divided into Banks: A Deep Dive Read More »
In ARM Cortex-M architectures such as Cortex-M3, Cortex-M4, Cortex-M7, and Cortex-M33, stack management is a fundamental mechanism that enables exception handling, context switching, and real-time operating system (RTOS) operation. One of the unique features of the ARM Cortex-M core is its support for two independent stack pointers: the Main Stack Pointer (MSP) and the Process
Understanding MSP vs PSP in ARM Cortex-M Read More »
In SPI protocol design, timing between control and data signals plays a crucial role in reliable communication, especially in multi-slave, high-speed, or sensitive analog peripheral systems. Two often overlooked but critical timing parameters are: Master SS Idleness Inter-Data Idleness These parameters are available in modern SPI controllers and are vital for ensuring proper synchronization between
SPI Timing Understanding: Master SS Idleness and Inter-Data Delay Explained Read More »
Flash memory is the non-volatile memory where your program code and persistent data are stored. It is a critical component of any microcontroller, including the STM32 family. STM32 microcontrollers, embed their own flash memory, tailored to meet deterministic execution, code retention, and in-application programming (IAP) needs. Understanding how to properly program, erase, and manage flash
FLASH Programming in STM32 Microcontrollers Read More »
When developing firmware, performance, memory footprint, and safety are critical. That is where keywords like const and constexpr come into play. At first glance, both seem to make variables immutable, but they differ significantly in when and how they achieve this. In this post, I will explain the technical depth behind const and constexpr, their
const vs constexpr in C++ Explained with Embedded Examples Read More »
In embedded systems — especially with microcontrollers like the STM32H5 (Cortex-M33) — linking is not just a toolchain step. It represents the final integration point where independently compiled code modules, memory layout constraints, and hardware-specific expectations converge into a working binary. Yet, many engineers treat the linker as a black box — something that “just
How the IAR Linker Resolves Function Calls Across Files in ARM Cortex-M Read More »
When writing low-level embedded C code for ARM Cortex-M, understanding the ARM function call stack frame is essential for analyzing memory usage, optimizing performance, and debugging hard faults. This post dives deep into the ARM calling conventions, stack frame setup, and the distinction between caller-saved and callee-saved registers — all through practical examples. ARM Cortex-M
How the ARM Function Call Stack Frame Works (With C & Assembly Examples) Read More »
When integrating a Real-Time Clock (RTC) into embedded systems, especially in ultra-low-power or time-critical applications, some issues may not become apparent until after deployment. These issues can result in unexpected behavior, data loss, or inaccurate timekeeping. Below is a comprehensive list of real-world RTC challenges commonly faced by developers and product teams, particularly when working
Common RTC Issues in Embedded Systems (STM32) and How to Solve Them Read More »
An RTC (Real-Time Clock ) is a specialized timing component used to maintain accurate timekeeping. It is essential in applications where precise, scheduled operations are required. Beyond its use in clocks and watches, RTCs play a critical role in devices like smart meters, washing machines, medicine dispensers, data loggers, and other time-sensitive systems. STM32 comes
Tips for Using RTC in STM32H5 Microcontrollers Read More »
In embedded systems, sharing clock signals externally is often essential for synchronizing peripherals or other microcontrollers. Most of the popular Microcontrollers often need to share their internal clock signals with external components. The STM32H573 supports this via Microcontroller Clock Outputs (MCO) on two GPIO pins: PA8 (MCO1) and PC9 (MCO2). Whether you’re debugging clock issues or
How to Generate Clock Output (MCO1/MCO2) on STM32H573 Read More »