The STEVAL-ROBKIT1 from STMicroelectronics is a fully integrated robotics evaluation platform designed to streamline development, training, and classroom instruction. Built around the high-performance STM32H725 and the efficient STM32G0 microcontrollers, this kit bridges the gap between professional-grade embedded hardware and accessible educational tools.
Whether you’re an engineer prototyping motion-control algorithms or an instructor teaching embedded systems concepts, the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 offers a balanced blend of computational power, robust motor control, and plug-and-play expandability.
What Sets the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 Apart
Unlike typical robot kits that require extensive sourcing and manual wiring, the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 provides an integrated hardware ecosystem where every module is pre-validated for compatibility. Assembly requires no soldering, significantly reducing setup time for students and first-time users. Each board and sensor is engineered to work cohesively out of the box.
1. Main Board (STEVAL-ROBKIT1-1): High-Performance Control Hub
At the center of the system is the STM32H725IGT6, a Cortex-M7 microcontroller optimized for high-demand real-time tasks. Its processing power and memory architecture make it suitable for advanced operations such as sensor fusion, computer vision pre-processing, real-time control loops, and wireless communication handling.
Main Processor Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| MCU | STM32H725IGT6 (Arm Cortex-M7) |
| CPU Frequency | Up to 550 MHz |
| Flash Memory | 1 MB |
| SRAM | 564 KB with ECC |
| Operating Voltage | 1.62–3.6 V |
Wireless Connectivity
The board includes the BlueNRG-M2 module, providing Bluetooth Low Energy 5.2 support with robust long-range capabilities.
Onboard Sensors
| Sensor | Function | Model |
|---|---|---|
| 6-axis IMU | Accelerometer + Gyroscope | LSM6DSV16BX |
| Magnetometer | 3-axis Compass/Orientation | LIS2MDL |
| Digital Microphone | Audio Input | MP34DT06J |
Expansion Options
A Raspberry-Pi–compatible 40-pin header enables the use of third-party modules, displays, or custom interface boards—ideal for research, rapid prototyping, and STEM experimentation.
2. Motor Control Board (STEVAL-ROBKIT1-2): Precision Motion Subsystem
The motor control board is built around the STM32G071CBT6, a low-power Cortex-M0+ microcontroller tailored for real-time motor-control tasks. It manages PWM generation, speed regulation, closed-loop control, and system diagnostics.
Motor Control Board Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| MCU | STM32G071CBT6 (Arm Cortex-M0+) |
| CPU Frequency | 64 MHz |
| Flash Memory | 128 KB |
| SRAM | 36 KB |
| Motor Driver | STSPIN240 (Dual Brush DC Driver) |
| Embedded Motion Sensor | LSM6DSR (6-axis IMU) |
The STSPIN240 driver ensures smooth motor startup and torque control while maintaining excellent efficiency—important for battery-powered robotics platforms.
The integrated LSM6DSR IMU adds real-time feedback for improving traction control, odometry, and maneuverability.
3. Camera & ToF Module (STEVAL-ROBKIT1-3): Vision and Obstacle Detection
This module equips the robot with essential perception capabilities using a global shutter camera and a high-performance ToF sensor.
Vision Module Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | VD56G3 (1.53 MP, Global Shutter) |
| ToF Sensor | VL53L8CX (Multizone, Up to 400 cm) |
| Power Management | ST1PS01 Step-Down Converter |
The VD56G3 global shutter sensor minimizes distortion when capturing fast-moving elements, improving stability in tasks like line following, gesture detection, or wheel-speed compensation in SLAM experiments.
The VL53L8CX provides 8×8 multizone distance mapping, enabling precise obstacle detection and autonomous navigation.
Essential Accessories Included
The kit provides everything required to build a fully functioning two-wheel robot:
- DC motors with integrated encoders
- Durable wheels
- 4×AA battery holder
- Screws and mounting hardware
- Acrylic chassis and structural panels
- Pre-wired connectors (no soldering required)
Assembly takes only a few minutes and is suitable for both classrooms and entry-level workshops.
Software Ecosystem: Firmware, Tools, and Mobile App
STMicroelectronics supports the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 with a complete end-to-end software stack.
Included Software
- STSW-ROBKIT1 (Open-Source Firmware)
Covers both STM32H7 and STM32G0 platforms and includes FreeRTOS, BLE handling, sensor fusion, computer vision utilities, and middleware examples. - Motor Control Application
Demonstrates PID control, velocity regulation, and typical DC motor algorithms used in robotics courses. - STM32Cube Compatibility
Fully supported by STM32CubeIDE, STM32CubeMX, and middleware libraries, enabling rapid application development and debugging. - STRobotics Mobile App (Android & iOS)
A ready-to-use controller app featuring:- Dual virtual joystick
- Live sensor visualization
- Data logging for classroom demonstrations
The app remains closed-source but is intuitive enough for beginners.
Availability and Getting Started
The STEVAL-ROBKIT1 is widely available through STMicroelectronics and authorized distributors at a retail price of USD $299.
Comprehensive documentation, firmware packages, and hardware guides are accessible on the official product page.
A 21-minute step-by-step video tutorial covers kit assembly and initial operation. Since most of the runtime focuses on mechanical assembly, watching at 2× speed is recommended for faster onboarding.
Whether you’re:
- an embedded engineer testing high-performance motor-control algorithms,
- an educator teaching real-time systems and sensor integration, or
- a student exploring robotics fundamentals,
the STEVAL-ROBKIT1 provides a scalable and reliable platform that supports both introductory learning and advanced experimentation. Its combination of robust hardware, strong software support, and effortless assembly makes it one of the most versatile robotics evaluation kits available today.
