Getting a new MCU running is half datasheet and half toolchain. The good news with AT32 is that it is a standard Cortex-M4: the Arm ecosystem — GCC, OpenOCD, SWD debuggers and the usual RTOSes — all apply. This guide is a getting-started map for software and ecosystem, complementing the vendor development-tools guide.
1. RTOS choices
- FreeRTOS — lightweight, ubiquitous, easy to port; good default for most control products.
- RT-Thread — richer services and components for connected or complex devices.
- Bare metal — still valid for small, deterministic firmware with no scheduling needs.
2. Toolchain and debug
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Compiler | Arm GCC (open source) or vendor toolchain |
| Debug | SWD/JTAG probe, OpenOCD or IDE |
| Build | CMake or the IDE project; keep it reproducible |
| Flash | SWD programmer or in-system bootloader |
| Prototyping | Arduino core where available for speed |
3. A sane first week
- Bring up the clock, GPIO and a serial port before anything else.
- Get the debugger flashing and stepping — do not skip this.
- Port one RTOS task and a timer; prove the scheduler runs.
- Then add the peripheral you care about (ADC, USB or CAN from the other guides).
- Keep a known-good baseline commit so regressions are easy to find.
We carry the AT32F403ACGT7 to start; see the MCU range. For peripheral depth, pair this with the ADC guide, interface guide and timer/PWM guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which RTOS runs on AT32?
AT32 Cortex-M4 parts run the common real-time operating systems — FreeRTOS, RT-Thread and others — because the core and toolchain are standard. The exact board support and examples depend on the specific part and your tool vendor.
Can I use the Arduino framework with AT32?
Community Arduino cores exist for some Artery parts, which lowers the barrier for prototypes and education. Treat them as a fast start, and confirm that the peripheral you rely on is supported before committing a product to that path.
What toolchain do I need?
A standard Arm GCC toolchain plus a debugger (SWD/JTAG) covers most AT32 work, alongside the vendor IDE if you prefer it. The key is a reproducible build and a working flash/debug setup from day one.
Where do I get AT32 parts to start?
We stock Artery AT32 MCUs as an independent distributor. Send the exact part for samples or volume and we will confirm availability and date code.
About us & trademarks: JTDZ Tech (Shenzhen Jingteng Electronics Technology Co., Ltd.) is an independent distributor of electronic components. We are not an authorised distributor or representative of the manufacturers named in this article. Manufacturer and part names are used for indicative purposes only, to help identify the components discussed; all trademarks remain the property of their respective owners. Always verify specifications against the official datasheet before design-in or purchase.
Recommended next steps
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