techdesk

Dear Delphi Community, I'm reaching out to tap into the expertise and passion of this community as I embark on an exciting project. As you may have noticed, the STM32 microcontroller series by STMicroelectronics has been generating a lot of buzz globally. These powerful chips, found in popular boards like NUCLEO, DISCOVERY, and BLUE-PILL, are revolutionizing embedded systems development. To simplify the process of interfacing with these boards using Delphi (via RAD Studio), I am keen to develop a free, user-friendly Delphi component. This component would offer seamless integration with STM32Cube IDE commands and parameters, making it effortless for hobbyists and developers in the mechatronics field to interact with these boards. Here's what I envision for the component: Easy Integration: A "drop into form" component that allows users to effortlessly incorporate STM32 board functionality into their Delphi projects. Board Selection: A user-friendly interface featuring a drop-down menu listing popular boards like NUCLEO, DISCOVERY, and BLUE-PILL. USB Connectivity: Seamless integration with the USB port for communication with the STM32 boards. Configurability: Comprehensive settings options to configure parameters such as baud rates, data bits, and more. Command Execution: Once configured, users should be able to execute read and write operations with ease, leveraging familiar STM32Cube IDE commands and parameters. I believe such a component would greatly benefit the Delphi community, offering a streamlined solution for working with STM32 boards without the complexity often associated with other development environments. While I have a vision for this component, I recognize that collaboration and expertise from fellow enthusiasts like you would be invaluable in bringing it to fruition. Whether you're a seasoned Delphi developer, an STM32 aficionado, or simply someone eager to contribute to an exciting project, I welcome your input and assistance.

Thank you all for your comments. I have failed in describing the project. So let us leave it at that and move on. Bye everyone. Keep well

What source code?

"Why not do it yourself." If I could I would not be here

No take on this yet?

Here I made up a Delphi mockup which could be self explanatory. Please see attached PDF As can be seen that the STM32 Chip could be configured as required. Other components such as Gyros, GPS Modules Compasses etc could be added to the Project1. On the "EVENTS" of these sensors, necessary information could be attained or sent through the Chip Outputs etc.etc etc. So in a nutshell I simply need collaboration to design such components for Delphi so that a custom program could be designed. I reiterate, these components would be free and certainly be a hugh boon for Delphi programmers. Seeing almost 1000 views in such a short post period leads me to believe that these components would create a huge interest among the Delphi community. STMF4Demo.pdf

@Lars Fosdal Almost correct. But it should be a VCL component for Delphi. Plus the component properties must be able to map the pinset (GPIO as it is known) of the STM32 into the component. Otherwise there will be no way that you could read/send data to unknown pins.

"Communicate with STM32 device is one thing, program a STM32 device is TOTALLY another thing." This is not correct. To communicate with a STM32 is not much of a problem if simple data needs to be sent from the STM32 chip. However when it comes to giving instructions to the STM32 chip via your own program, you NEED to access the hardware side of the STM32 chip. Simply put, you cannot simply command for example a LED on the STM32 to go high via your program, or stop a stepper motor attached to it. You need to be able to send such commands which the STM32 understands.

STM32 can be configured with its own IDE (STM32CUBE IDE) But when I write a program (any program for example in Delphi). It runs on my pc. Lets say I designed a game, nothing to do with STM32 devices. In my Delphi game, I decide to communicate with an outside device which has a STM32 chip, then I need to know how to communicate with it. I cannot simply communicate with it using Delphi code. I need a "translator" between my code and STM32 code.

I am sorry. But it seems that either I cannot explain properly or there are not experts on this forum to understand exactly what I am requiring. Let me educate those that need to understand the basics. The world of computing is divided into two: Soft programming and Hard programming. Soft programming is what you do with normal program languages to access the internals of a computer to compute within itself to distribute the results to attached peripherals such as screens, printers etc. These peripherals are at your mercy. They execute your program. Hard programming is when you need to interface with independent robots. You run your language of choice and the the robots run their own software, their own language etc. The robot tells you that should you need to interface with him then you need to use his protocols and language. Like it is just fair that the Chinese ask you to speak Chinese for communication, we cannot force English down their throats. But it is quite in order for you to ask the Chinese for a translator. All I am simply asking is that as a Delphi programmer, I need a translator to communicate with the "foreign" STM32 chip. My analogy of the Englishman and Chinese is the same as asking why should a "Delphiman" be compelled to learn "STM32 language"? If this explanation is not clear enough then please close this subject and I shall move on to other pastures.

Is this forum an interrogation platform or a Delphi help desk system- supposedly! I believe that if boredom has the upper hand then search other platforms to vent that "urge". For someone to conclude that I am wanting to create an IDE within an IDE is the height of .......! Simple exercise for you: Make a standalone program with a Form, Button and Memo with STM32CUBE IDE. 🙈

I had numerous requests from Delphi programmers for a custom designed ground station for a custom flight controller and some other robotic equipment using custom STM32 chips which could be directly written in Delphi. Although there are OpenSource modules of ground stations, but these module are usually packed in C++ requiring a ton of build and make with a crowd of scattered files. And they are not compatible with Delphi programming.

I dont understand your post. How does "creating a simple to use VCL component for Delphi" relate to an IDE within an IDE. " Quote- "Silence is the shield of fools"..

Yes I do use AI to spruce up my docs. I believe that if technology exists, use it! Saves me a lot of time 😃

It seems there might be a slight misconception here. The STM32Cube IDE indeed provides a comprehensive platform for programming the STM32 chip, but it's worth noting that it's primarily designed for embedded development, focusing on configuring and managing STM32-based projects rather than standalone application development. Delphi, on the other hand, offers a distinct advantage in its versatility. With Delphi, you have the freedom to write custom code tailored to your specific needs, allowing for a wide range of applications beyond traditional embedded systems. For instance, you could leverage Delphi to craft your own ground station software, complete with specialized commands catered to drones equipped with STM32 chipsets. The beauty of Delphi lies in its flexibility and extensibility. As a Delphi programmer, you have the power to create bespoke solutions that go beyond the confines of pre-built platforms. Whether you're developing commercial software or tinkering with personal projects, the ability to harness the full potential of the STM32 chip within the Delphi environment opens up a world of possibilities. And let's not forget the appeal of "free" Delphi components. For Delphi enthusiasts, the availability of free components is a boon, offering valuable resources and tools to enhance their development workflow without breaking the bank. While some may express reservations, it's essential to recognize that the spirit of collaboration and innovation within the Delphi community ultimately drives progress and empowers developers to achieve remarkable feats. In essence, Delphi empowers you to push the boundaries of what's possible with the STM32 chip, unleashing your creativity and ingenuity to create groundbreaking solutions that defy expectations. So, let's embrace the boundless potential of Delphi and embark on a journey of discovery and innovation together.