USB ToolStick

The Silicon Labs ToolStick is an easy to use development system that allows designers to develop and debug application firmware directly on the target microcontroller using the Silicon Labs Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Once complete, designers can replace the Daughter Card with a Programming Adapter and program blank devices for use in their actual system.

Software

Simplicity Studio is available as a free download. Install Simplicity Studio and follow the appropriate Daughter Card User Guide for instructions on using the development tools and running the demonstration firmware.

For ToolStick kits not yet supported by Simplicity Studio, the ToolStick development platform is available as free downloads. Install the ToolStick Development Tools and Silicon Labs' 8-bit Microcontroller Studio to the same directory and follow the appropriate Daughter Card User Guide for instructions on using the development tools and running the demonstration firmware.

Getting Started

ToolStick Starter Kit

The easiest way to get started experimenting with the ToolStick is with the ToolStick Starter Kit. This kit is a complete development system that contains a ToolStick Base Adapter and an interchangeable C8051F330 MCU Daughter Card. To continue developing with a selected MCU, choose the appropriate Daughter Card and Programming Adapter. Daughter Cards are sold individually and require a separate Base Adapter to be purchased if not previously owned. Programming Adapter kits include a Base Adapter and a separate purchase is not required.

ToolStick Base Adapter

A ToolStick Base Adapter is one component of the ToolStick development system and is not functional without a ToolStick daughter card. If the Base Adapter was not purchased as part of a Starter Kit, daughter cards can be purchased separately.

ToolStick Debug Adapter

The ToolStick Debug Adapter, in conjunction with a ToolStick Base Adapter, provides an interface between the PC’s USB port and the target device’s in-system debug/programming circuitry. The ToolStick Debug Adapter can be used to program and debug a standard Silicon Labs MCU development board.