STMicroelectronics STM32L100C-DISCO

Overview

STM32L100C-DISCO from STMicroelectronics is a discovery kit based on the STM32L100RCT6 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller with 256 KB Flash, 16 KB RAM, and LQFP64 package. It integrates an embedded ST-LINK/V2 debugger, four user-programmable LEDs (LD1–LD4), two push buttons (user/reset), dual power options (USB or external 5 V), and a full I/O extension header for prototyping.

For engineers reviewing the STM32L100C-DISCO datasheet, STM32L100C-DISCO pinout, STM32L100C-DISCO application, or STM32L100C-DISCO equivalent, this board supports rapid evaluation of ultra-low-power MCU features including dynamic voltage scaling, multiple low-power modes, and real-time peripheral control in battery-constrained embedded designs.

Technical Context

The kit implements the STM32L100RCT6 MCU operating at up to 32 MHz with 1.65–3.6 V supply range and active-mode current as low as 220 µA/MHz. It delivers integrated USB 2.0 FS device interface, 12-bit ADC, 12-channel DMA, and 11 timers-including one low-power RTC-enabling precise timing and sensor interfacing in energy-sensitive applications.

ST-LINK/V2 provides SWD-based programming and debugging via Mini-B USB connection, supporting both standalone debug probe operation and target MCU development. The board's dual-voltage capability (3 V/5 V external supply) allows direct interfacing with legacy and modern peripherals without level-shifting.

Key Specifications

Availability

STM32L100C-DISCO is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ultra-low-power sensor node development, portable medical device prototyping, and industrial edge controller evaluation requiring stable component supply and long-term toolchain support.

Supply support for STM32L100C-DISCO 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 automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The STM32L1 Value Line targets cost-sensitive, battery-powered applications demanding sub-µA stop-mode current and fast wake-up, with optimized peripheral sets for sensing, connectivity, and secure firmware execution.

FAQ

Does STM32L100C-DISCO include preloaded firmware?

Yes. The board ships with demonstration firmware preloaded in Flash memory that uses the user button (B1) to cycle through LED blinking frequencies on LD3 (green), with each press confirmed by LD4 (blue). Source code and documentation are available from ST's official website under STSW-STM32131.

Can STM32L100C-DISCO be used as a standalone ST-LINK/V2 debugger?

Yes. A mode-selection switch allows reconfiguration of the onboard ST-LINK/V2 circuit to operate independently as a debug probe for other STM32 targets. In this mode, the SWD connector provides standard SWDIO/SWCLK/TMS/TCK/GND signals compatible with Keil, IAR, and GCC-based toolchains.

What development environments are supported?

The kit is validated with IAR EWARM, Keil MDK-ARM, and Atollic TrueSTUDIO (GCC-based). All require Windows XP/7/8 and a standard USB A-to-Mini-B cable. ST also provides STM32CubeMX for initialization code generation and HAL/LL driver libraries for peripheral abstraction.

Is external power required to run the target MCU?

No. The board powers the STM32L100RCT6 directly from USB (5 V, regulated to 3.3 V) or from an external 5 V supply. An optional 3 V rail is provided for external peripherals, but the MCU itself operates solely from the internal 3.3 V domain generated by the onboard regulator.