STMicroelectronics STM32F105RCT6

The STM32F105RCT6 microcontroller, part of the STM32 family of ARM Cortex-M3 based chips, has garnered attention from hobbyists and professionals alike due to its versatility and robust performance in various embedded systems. This article explores the pinout configuration, popular development boards, and how to integrate this microcontroller with Arduino for diverse projects. Additionally, we will touch on the essentials such as the reference manual, programming considerations, and the design footprint.

Table of Contents

• Overview of STM32F105RCT6
• STM32F105RCT6 Pinout
• Designing Circuits with STM32F105RCT6
• STM32F105RCT6 Development Boards
• Integrating STM32F105RCT6 with Arduino Projects
• Practical Projects Using STM32F105RCT6
• STM32F105RCT6 Package and Footprint
• Sum up
• Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of STM32F105RCT6

The STM32F105RCT6 is a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller that is commonly used in embedded systems due to its high performance, low power consumption, and rich peripheral set. It operates at a clock speed of 72 MHz and features a 512 KB flash memory and 64 KB SRAM, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications, from simple DIY projects to complex industrial systems.

Key Features of STM32F105RCT6:

Core: ARM Cortex-M3

Operating Voltage: 2.0V to 3.6V

Flash Memory: 512 KB

RAM: 64 KB

Timers: Multiple timers for precise control

Interfaces: I2C, SPI, UART, USB, ADC, and DAC

The microcontroller is well-suited for a range of applications, including communication devices, industrial control systems, and robotics.

STM32F105RCT6 Pinout

The STM32F105RCT6 has 64 pins in a LQFP (Low-Profile Quad Flat Package), making it highly suitable for a range of embedded applications. 

Pinout

STM32F105RCT6 Pinout

Understanding the pinout is essential for properly connecting the STM32F105RCT6 to external components, ensuring correct functionality in embedded designs. The reference manual from STMicroelectronics provides a detailed explanation of the pinout and its configurations.

Designing Circuits with STM32F105RCT6

When designing a circuit with the STM32F105RCT6, it's essential to consider factors like power consumption, peripheral requirements, and external components. A schematic diagram is necessary to ensure that all connections are correctly mapped out.

Power Supply: The STM32F105RCT6 operates at 3.3V, so it's essential to ensure that the circuit provides stable voltage to the microcontroller. Use voltage regulators to step down from higher voltages like 5V.

External Components: When designing your circuit, ensure that you include necessary components such as resistors, capacitors, and protection diodes for stable and safe operation.

Footprint: The footprint of the STM32F105RCT6 should be carefully considered, especially when designing a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Ensure that all pins are accessible, and the board is designed to accommodate the LQFP package.

STM32F105RCT6 Typical Application Circuitry Schematics

STM32F105RCT6 Typical Application Circuitry Schematics

The typical application circuitry for the STM32F105RCT6 includes several key components for power management, I/O, and analog functions:

VBAT: Powers backup systems (RTC, wake-up logic) when external power is off.

VDD: Supplies power to the core and I/O logic, stabilized by capacitors.

Regulator: Ensures a stable voltage supply.

Level Shifter: Converts voltage levels for I/O compatibility.

GPIOs: General-purpose pins for digital I/O.

ADC: Converts analog signals to digital, useful for sensor interfacing.

VREF & VSSA: Provide reference voltage for the ADC for accurate readings.

This schematic showcases the STM32F105RCT6's power management and functionality for both digital and analog applications.

STM32F105RCT6 Development Boards

When working with the STM32F105RCT6, development boards are an essential tool. These boards provide an easy-to-use platform to prototype and test designs without having to worry about manually soldering the components. There are various development boards available for the STM32F105RCT6, but some of the most popular ones include:

Blue Pill Board

The Blue Pill is one of the most popular and affordable development boards featuring the STM32F103 microcontroller, which is closely related to the STM32F105RCT6. It is known for its small form factor and a large community of users. The board is equipped with a USB interface for programming and power supply, and it offers a variety of GPIO pins for connecting external devices.

Though the Blue Pill is primarily designed for STM32F103, many of its features and pins are similar to those of the STM32F105RCT6. The board is often used in hobbyist projects due to its low price and ease of use.

STM32F105RCT6-based Development Board

If you want a development board specifically designed for the STM32F105RCT6, there are options like the STM32F1 series boards, which offer a more comprehensive set of features. These boards typically come with built-in debugging interfaces like SWD (Serial Wire Debug) and an integrated bootloader, making them ideal for development.

Integrating STM32F105RCT6 with Arduino Projects

STM32F105RCT6 Arduino

While the STM32F105RCT6 is not natively supported by the Arduino IDE, it is possible to use the board in Arduino-based projects with some additional setup. Using a bootloader and an appropriate toolchain, you can program the STM32F105RCT6 via the Arduino IDE.

Steps to Program STM32F105RCT6 with Arduino

Install STM32 Board Support: To program the STM32F105RCT6 using the Arduino IDE, you will first need to install STM32 board support. This can be done through the Arduino Boards Manager by adding the STM32 URL to the preferences and selecting the correct STM32 board.

Choose the Correct Port and Programmer: Ensure that the correct port and programmer (like ST-Link or USB) are selected in the Arduino IDE.

Write and Upload Code: Once setup is complete, you can start writing your Arduino sketches and upload them to the STM32F105RCT6 just like you would with an Arduino board.

The ability to use the STM32F105RCT6 with the Arduino IDE opens up a wide range of possibilities for projects, including more complex circuits and interfacing with a variety of sensors and modules.

Practical Projects Using STM32F105RCT6

There are countless projects you can undertake with the STM32F105RCT6, whether you're interested in robotics, IoT (Internet of Things), or automation. Below are a few project ideas that highlight the capabilities of the microcontroller:

1. Home Automation System

Using the STM32F105RCT6, you can create a home automation system that controls lights, fans, and appliances based on input from sensors or user interfaces like smartphones. By integrating the microcontroller with wireless communication modules (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth), you can remotely monitor and control devices.

2. Weather Station

The STM32F105RCT6 can be used to create a weather station that collects data from temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors. The data can then be displayed on an LCD screen or sent to a cloud platform for remote monitoring.

3. Robotic Arm

By combining the STM32F105RCT6 with motor controllers and sensors, you can build a robotic arm. The microcontroller can control the servos, motors, and sensors, allowing the arm to perform tasks such as object manipulation or picking up objects.

4. Smart Garden

The STM32F105RCT6 can be used in a smart garden project where it monitors soil moisture, temperature, and light conditions to optimize watering and other environmental factors. The data collected can be sent to a mobile app or cloud service for analysis.

STM32F105RCT6 Package and Footprint

Package

STM32F105RCT6 package

Package Type: LQFP-64

Pins: 64

Pin Pitch (e): 0.8mm

Package Size: 10mm x 10mm

Height: 1.4mm

Footprint Dimensions:

STM32F105RCT6 footprint

Footprint Size: 12.7mm x 12.7mm

Pin Pad Pitch: 0.8mm

Pin Pad Size: 0.35mm to 0.45mm

Sum up

The STM32F105RCT6 is a powerful microcontroller that is ideal for embedded systems development, especially when paired with development boards like the Blue Pill or other STM32F1 series boards. By integrating the STM32F105RCT6 with Arduino, you can tap into the vast Arduino ecosystem and create a wide range of innovative projects. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, the STM32F105RCT6 offers the flexibility and performance needed for a variety of applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of STM32F105RCT6?

The price ranges from $3 to $5 USD, depending on the supplier and quantity.

Where can I find the STM32F105RCT6 datasheet?

You can find the STM32F105RCT6 datasheet on our official website

What's included in the reference manual?

It covers architecture, peripherals, memory layout, electrical specs, and pin configurations.

What's the difference between STM32F105RCT6 and STM32F103?

The STM32F105RCT6 has more analog inputs and additional peripherals than the STM32F103.

How do I connect sensors to the STM32F105RCT6?

You can use its GPIO pins, I2C, SPI, or ADC for interfacing with sensors.