Add new debug targets to Arm Development Studio
Introduction
Debug connection to Arm Fast Models
Debug connection with Arm DSTREAM
Next Steps

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About this Learning Path

Skill level:  Introductory
Reading time:  30 min
Last updated:  13 Aug 2026
Skill level:
  Introductory
Reading time:
  30 min
Last updated:
  13 Aug 2026
Author:Ronan Synnott, Arm
Arm IP:Cortex-A Cortex-R Cortex-M Neoverse
Tags: Performance and Architecture Baremetal Arm Development Studio Arm Fast Models DSTREAM
Author:
  • Ronan Synnott, Arm
Arm IP:
Cortex-A Cortex-R Cortex-M Neoverse
Tags:
Performance and Architecture Baremetal Arm Development Studio Arm Fast Models DSTREAM

Who is this for?

This is an introductory topic for embedded software developers new to Arm Development Studio.

What will you learn?

Upon completion of this Learning Path, you will be able to:

  • Create a debug configuration for a virtual platform
  • Create a debug configuration for a development board

Prerequisites

Before starting, you will need the following:

  • Some familiarity with embedded debug

Summary

AI-assisted

This summary was drafted with an approved AI-assisted workflow and reviewed by Arm contributors before publication. Human technical review remains part of the process so the final page reflects engineering rigor, accuracy, and Arm editorial standards.

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You’ll add virtual and hardware debug targets in Arm Development Studio. First, you’ll configure a connection to an Arm Fast Models platform. Then, you’ll create a board target using an Arm DSTREAM probe. You’ll choose a DSTREAM model based on trace needs, select USB or Ethernet transport, define connection details, and verify both debug configurations.

Frequently asked questions

AI-assisted

These FAQs were drafted with an approved AI-assisted workflow and reviewed by Arm contributors before publication. Human technical review remains part of the process so the final page reflects engineering rigor, accuracy, and Arm editorial standards.

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Which DSTREAM probe should I select for my board connection?
DSTREAM-ST provides full debug over JTAG and SWD and supports on-chip plus low bandwidth (4-bit) external trace. Choose another DSTREAM family member if you require higher bandwidth trace and your SoC and platform support it.
Should I connect the DSTREAM probe over USB or Ethernet?
Both transports are supported. Use the one available in your setup and ensure the Development Studio configuration matches how the probe is physically connected.
What should I verify before creating a Fast Models debug connection?
Confirm that Arm Fast Models and Arm Development Studio are installed. Ensure the appropriate virtual platform is available and gather the connection details required by your configuration.
How do I know the debugger is connected to an Arm Fast Models virtual platform?
A successful connection lets Development Studio interact with the platform as if it were real hardware. If the connection fails, review the virtual platform details entered in the debug configuration.
Which debug interface should I use for the DSTREAM connection: JTAG or SWD?
DSTREAM supports both JTAG and Serial Wire Debug. Use the interface provided by your target SoC and board.
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