Software tool simplifies MCU-based device-to-cloud connectivity
Microcontroller suppliers are striving to bolster device-to-cloud connectivity by adding software tools that simplify the Internet of Things (IoT) links to major cloud platforms. Case in point: STMicroelectronics has released software that simplifies connectivity for devices built around its STM32H5 microcontrollers to AWS IoT Core and Microsoft Azure IoT Hub.
The X-CUBE-AWS-H5 and X-CUBE-AZURE-H5 expansion packages feature a set of libraries and application examples for STM32H5 microcontrollers to facilitate secure connection to the AWS and Azure cloud platforms, respectively.
Figure 1 The new software for STM32H5 MCUs leverages ST’s Secure Manager for protected connection to cloud IoT platforms. Source: STMicroelectronics
The sample applications illustrate device-to-cloud connectivity along with network configuration and data publishing. For instance, the application example in the X-CUBE-AZURE-H5 expansion package handles Azure messages, methods, and twin update commands.
These expansion packages also leverage ST’s embedded security software, Secure Manager, to securely connect STM32H5 microcontrollers to AWS and Azure cloud platforms. Secure Manager provides isolation properties that facilitate protecting the intellectual property of multiple owners on the same platform. This multitenant IP protection is part of a comprehensive set of services that protect the confidentiality and integrity of assets through development, manufacturing, and in the field.
STM32H5 microcontrollers, based on Arm Cortex-M33, are programmed with their own immutable identity at the ST factory. That, combined with ST’s Secure Manager, simplifies registering smart devices to AWS and Azure cloud platforms and removes the need for costly infrastructure otherwise necessary to keep the identities of IoT objects secret during their production.
Figure 2 STM32H5 Discovery kit lets developers easily and securely connect their STM32H5-based prototypes to cloud platforms like AWS IoT Core. Source: STMicroelectronics
Moreover, devices in production and those in the field can also benefit from remote provisioning and administration of credentials via third-party service providers. That’s because Secure Manager stores the credentials needed to connect to AWS and Azure IoT Hub, as well as other device secrets and assets, within the STM32H5 microcontroller.
The STM32H5 microcontroller, introduced in March 2023, is the first to support Secure Manager and target PSA Certified level 3 and SESIP3 certifications. The MCU’s security features simplify the process for developers to securely provision and manage high-performance IoT devices.
Developers can also take advantage of the powerful services offered by AWS and Azure cloud platforms to transform the data collected from their devices into actionable insights.
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