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Arm Cortex M0/M0+

Troubleshooting Cortex-M0 DesignStart Eval on Versatile Express Cortex-M Prototyping System

Graham Kruk
Last updated: October 5, 2023 10:08 am
Graham Kruk
5 Min Read
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The Cortex-M0 DesignStart evaluation board allows developers to prototype and evaluate designs using the ARM Cortex-M0 processor. However, users may encounter issues when attempting to get started with the DesignStart board and Versatile Express Cortex-M prototyping system. This article provides troubleshooting tips and solutions for common problems.

Contents
  • Verifying Hardware Setup
  • Configuring Debug Software
  • Troubleshooting JTAG Connection
  • Updating Hardware Drivers
  • Checking Clock and Power Settings
  • Software Debugging Steps
  • Target Test Programs
  • Seeking Additional Help

Verifying Hardware Setup

Before software debugging, first verify the hardware is properly connected:

  • Connect the 20-pin JTAG cable from the Versatile Express board to the Cortex-M0 DesignStart board. Ensure the cable is securely attached at both ends.
  • Check that the Versatile Express board is powered on. The green power LED should be illuminated.
  • Verify the Cortex-M0 DesignStart board is powered. Check for +3.3V power LED.
  • Confirm jumper settings on the DesignStart board are correct for JTAG debugging mode.

Configuring Debug Software

The ARM Development Studio 5 (DS-5) software is recommended for debugging Cortex-M0 designs. Properly configuring the debug settings is important:

  • Launch the DS-5 Debug Configuration wizard to create a new debug configuration.
  • Select the Versatile Express board in the wizard and enable multi-core debugging.
  • Specify the Cortex-M0 target, such as the DesignStart board.
  • Point the DS-5 project to the compiled executable file for your application.
  • Verify debugger settings like JTAG clock speed are appropriate.
  • Save the debug configuration settings for future debugging sessions.

Troubleshooting JTAG Connection

Failure to connect to the target Cortex-M0 processor is a common issue. Try the following to troubleshoot JTAG connectivity:

  • Reseat JTAG cable connections at both ends to ensure a solid connection.
  • Try swapping out the JTAG cable in case the cable is defective.
  • Check for bent or damaged JTAG pins on header connectors.
  • Ensure jumper settings on the DesignStart board enable JTAG mode.
  • Test continuity across JTAG cable using multimeter to verify cabling is OK.
  • Slow down JTAG clock speed in DS-5 debugger settings if using long cable.

Updating Hardware Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers for Versatile Express or DesignStart boards can also cause issues:

  • Install latest Versatile Express board drivers from ARM.
  • Update USB drivers for any required bridges or interfaces.
  • On Linux, ensure up-to-date kernel drivers are loaded for ARM boards.
  • Scan for any unknown devices in system device manager if boards not recognized.
  • Review dmesg logs on Linux to identify driver problems reported at bootup.

Checking Clock and Power Settings

Incorrect clock configurations or power problems can prevent the Cortex-M0 target from operating properly:

  • Verify correct clock sources and frequencies are used for Versatile Express and target boards.
  • Check for missing or damaged capacitors on power supplies.
  • Monitor target power rails during debug session for any dropouts or spikes.
  • Measure target reset and brown-out voltages to ensure in spec.
  • Examine target board schematics for any clock or power design issues.

Software Debugging Steps

If the hardware checks out, investigate software related problems:

  • Examine DS-5 Debugger views during connection attempt to get clues.
  • Use DS-5 steps, breakpoints and RTT printf to isolate code issues.
  • Verify compiled executable is built for Cortex-M0 target.
  • Check linker scripts and vectors for problems.
  • Confirm Cortex-M0 startup code executes properly.
  • Look for stack overflows or memory corruption.

Target Test Programs

Simple test programs can help validate the target Cortex-M0 hardware:

  • Blink LED on timer interrupt to verify basic functionality.
  • Loopback UART or SPI test to check peripherals.
  • Echo ADC inputs on GPIO to validate converters.
  • Exercise I2C or EEPROM to confirm connectivity.
  • Run coremark benchmark for a quick performance test.

Seeking Additional Help

For further assistance, consult these additional resources:

  • DesignStart user forums to find othersfacing similar issues.
  • ARM support and knowledgebase fortechnical troubleshooting info.
  • Versatile Express documentation and user guides.
  • Technical questions on community sites like Stack Overflow.
  • Contact DesignStart or Versatile Expressvendors for hardware-specific help.

By methodically troubleshooting both hardware configuration and software, most issues with the Cortex-M0 DesignStart and Versatile Express prototyping system can be resolved. Seeking help from documentation, forums, or vendor support can also assist in debugging more complex problems.

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