STMicroelectronics P-NUCLEO-WB55

Overview

P-NUCLEO-WB55 from STMicroelectronics is a dual-board Nucleo development pack for STM32WB multi-protocol wireless MCUs, comprising a Nucleo-68 board (STM32WB55RG) and a USB dongle (STM32WB55CG), both featuring 2.4 GHz RF transceivers compliant with Bluetooth® 5.0 and IEEE 802.15.4-2011, dual-core Arm Cortex-M4/M0+ architecture, integrated PCB antenna options, and on-board ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger.

For engineers reviewing the P-NUCLEO-WB55 datasheet, P-NUCLEO-WB55 pinout, P-NUCLEO-WB55 application, or P-NUCLEO-WB55 equivalent, this pack supports rapid prototyping of BLE 5.0 and IEEE 802.15.4-based IoT edge nodes, secure firmware updates via AES/PKA hardware accelerators, and dual-role development (host + radio layer) using STM32CubeMX, STM32CubeMonRF, and Mbed-enabled toolchains on Windows, Linux, or macOS.

Technical Context

The P-NUCLEO-WB55 implements a split-processor wireless architecture: the Cortex-M4 core handles application logic and host stack, while the dedicated Cortex-M0+ core executes real-time radio protocol layers (BLE/802.15.4) independently. This separation ensures deterministic RF timing and concurrent application execution without radio interference.

Hardware security includes dedicated AES-128/256 and Public Key Accelerator (PKA) peripherals used to protect the wireless stack and enable cryptographic operations such as key generation, digital signature, and secure boot verification - all accessible via STM32Cube firmware libraries.

Key Specifications

Availability

P-NUCLEO-WB55 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for BLE 5.0 sensor gateways, IEEE 802.15.4-based industrial telemetry nodes, and secure over-the-air (OTA) firmware update development requiring stable component supply and full toolchain integration.

Supply support for P-NUCLEO-WB55 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, analog ICs, MEMS, and power devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The STM32WB product line delivers dual-core wireless MCUs optimized for ultra-low-power, secure, multi-protocol IoT endpoints - combining real-time radio processing with rich application resources in compact packages.

FAQ

Does P-NUCLEO-WB55 support Thread or Zigbee protocol stacks out of the box?

Yes - the included STM32CubeWB firmware package provides certified Thread 1.1.1 and Zigbee 3.0 protocol stacks. These run on the Cortex-M0+ radio core, enabling seamless interoperability with existing Thread/Zigbee ecosystems without modifying the application core's Cortex-M4 code.

Can the USB dongle operate independently as a BLE central device?

Yes - the UFQFPN48-based dongle runs standalone firmware that implements a BLE central role, allowing it to scan, connect to, and exchange data with peripheral devices. It enumerates as a virtual COM port and supports AT command control via UART over USB.

What debug features are accessible through the on-board ST-LINK/V2-1?

The ST-LINK/V2-1 provides full SWD debugging, flash programming, real-time memory inspection, and trace capability for both Cortex-M4 and Cortex-M0+ cores. It also supports automatic firmware update via drag-and-drop mass storage mode and serial communication via virtual COM port.

Is the integrated PCB antenna suitable for regulatory certification?

Yes - the Nucleo-68 board's PCB antenna meets FCC/IC/CE radiated emission requirements when used per layout guidelines in AN5167. For final product certification, ST recommends verifying antenna performance in the target mechanical enclosure and referencing the pre-certified module documentation for STM32WB55RGV.