The MCUXpresso Installer is a tool developed by NXP Semiconductors to simplify the setup of embedded development environments, especially for users working with NXP microcontrollers. Here's an overview of its key features and functionality:
Purpose
The installer is designed to handle the complex dependencies involved in embedded development, such as:
- Compilers
- Linkers
- Debuggers
- Libraries
- Build systems
- Debug probe support
Key Features
- Streamlined Setup: Users can configure their development environment with a single click using high-level options.
- Cross-Platform Support: Available for Windows, Ubuntu, and macOS.
- Developer Profiles:
- MCUXpresso SDK Developer
- Zephyr Developer
- Matter Developer
Dependencies Managed
The installer automatically installs and configures:
- Python & West: For scripting and repository management
- Git: For version control
- CMake & Ninja: For build system infrastructure
- Zephyr SDK: For Zephyr-based development
- GNU Arm Toolchain: For MCUXpresso SDK development
Standalone Tools Included
- MCUXpresso Configuration Tools: For pin/clock/peripheral setup
- MCUXpresso SEC: Secure provisioning tool
- GUI Guider: UI development
- FreeMASTER: Real-time debug and data visualization
Installation Process
- The installer provides an intuitive UI to select software kits, debug probes, and individual components.
- It ensures that paths are correctly set (e.g., adding tools to the system PATH variable).
- Available for download via NXP's official site .
MCUXpresso Installer in VS Code
The MCUXpresso Installer can be obtained directly from VS Code.
- Click Open MCUXpresso Installer from the Quickstart Panel. If the Installer is not installed, the user will be prompted to directly install it then.
- Once the installation is complete, the MCUXpresso Installer will launch in a new window.
MCUXpresso Installer Usage
To install components such as the MCUXpresso SDK Developer tools select it from the menu. The component will be shown with a blue marker on the left to denote it has been selected. Hovering over the component will show the specific items the Installer will install for that component.
To inspect and control the details of the installation, select the component and click the Show details button. In the Installation details view, select/deselect tools to complete a custom installation.
To inspect the installation logs, click the menu icon on the top right and click Open log folder.
