STMicroelectronics STEVAL-MKI239A

Overview

STEVAL-MKI239A from STMicroelectronics is an adapter board for the LSM6DSV 6-axis IMU, providing full pin access via standard DIL24 socket interface, integrated decoupling capacitors (100 nF on VDD), and RoHS-compliant construction. It enables rapid prototyping of motion-sensing applications requiring I3C, OIS/EIS support, and embedded sensor fusion.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-MKI239A datasheet, STEVAL-MKI239A pinout, STEVAL-MKI239A application, or STEVAL-MKI239A equivalent, this board serves as a plug-in evaluation interface compatible with STEVAL-MKI109D and X-NUCLEO-IKS4A1 platforms for MEMS Studio GUI integration and custom firmware development.

Technical Context

The STEVAL-MKI239A implements a passive breakout architecture with no active logic or voltage translation - all LSM6DSV signals (I3C/SDA/SCL/CS/INT1/INT2/SDO/VDD/VDDIO/GND) are routed directly to dual-row 12-pin headers JP1 and JP2. Power integrity is maintained via two 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitors on the VDD rail.

It supports three hardware integration paths: direct insertion into a DIL24 socket, connection to the STEVAL-MKI109D bridge platform (STM32-based USB-to-sensor interface), or stacking onto the X-NUCLEO-IKS4A1 expansion board for multi-sensor Nucleo systems.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-MKI239A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearables development, motion-sensing prototyping, and industrial condition monitoring requiring stable component supply and consistent DIL24 footprint compatibility.

Supply support for STEVAL-MKI239A 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, sensors, power ICs, and analog components for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

This board belongs to ST's Professional MEMS Tools product line - engineered specifically to accelerate evaluation and integration of ST's motion and environmental sensors into customer systems using standardized hardware interfaces.

FAQ

Does STEVAL-MKI239A include an onboard microcontroller or firmware?

No. The STEVAL-MKI239A is a passive adapter board with no embedded processor, memory, or firmware. It relies entirely on an external host platform - such as STEVAL-MKI109D or X-NUCLEO-IKS4A1 - to provide communication, power sequencing, and data processing capabilities for the LSM6DSV sensor.

Can STEVAL-MKI239A be used standalone without STEVAL-MKI109D?

Yes, but only with a compatible host system that provides correct voltage levels (1.71–3.6 V for VDD, 1.08–3.6 V for VDDIO), I3C/I²C/SPI signaling, and interrupt handling. It lacks USB, power regulation, or debug interfaces - those must be supplied externally.

What is the purpose of the two 100 nF capacitors on the board?

These capacitors provide high-frequency decoupling for the LSM6DSV's VDD supply rail, reducing switching noise and ensuring stable internal LDO operation. Their placement adjacent to the sensor's VDD pin complies with ST's layout recommendations in AN5047 for optimal noise immunity in motion-sensing applications.

Is STEVAL-MKI239A compatible with STM32 Nucleo boards other than X-NUCLEO-IKS4A1?

Direct stacking is only validated for X-NUCLEO-IKS4A1. Other Nucleo boards require custom wiring or adapter cables, as pin alignment, power domain matching (VDDIO voltage range), and interrupt routing differ across Nucleo form factors and MCU families.