# Start debugging with µVision

## In this learning path

- [Introduction](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/)
- [Use basic run/stop debug](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/2_basics/)
- [Debug using Event Recorder](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/3_event_recorder/)
- [Debug using Serial Wire Viewer](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/4_swv/)
- [Advanced debug with ETM trace](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/5_etm_trace/)
- [Measure Power with ULINKplus](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/6_power_ulplus/)
- [Next Steps](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/uv_debug/_next-steps/)

## About this Learning Path

|  |  |
| --- | --- |
| Skill level: | Advanced |
| Reading time: | 1 hr 30 min |
| Last updated: | 06 Oct 2026 |

|  |  |
| --- | --- |
| Author: | Christopher Seidl , Arm |
| Arm IP: | [Cortex-M](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Microcontrollers) |
| Tags: | [Performance and Architecture](https://learn.arm.com/tag/performance-and-architecture) [RTOS](https://learn.arm.com/tag/rtos) [Baremetal](https://learn.arm.com/tag/baremetal) [Keil MDK](https://learn.arm.com/tag/keil-mdk) [FVP](https://learn.arm.com/tag/fvp) |

## Who is this for?
This is an advanced topic for software developers who want to debug microcontrollers using µVision.

## What will you learn?
After completing this Learning Path, you'll be able to perform the following tasks:

- Use basic run/stop debug
- Learn advanced debug techniques using Event Recorder and Serial Wire Viewer
- Learn to use ETM Trace for optimum performance
- Measure your power consumption with ULINKplus

## Prerequisites
Before starting, you'll need the following prerequisites:

- Some familiarity with embedded programming is assumed
- An [Arm Account](https://developer.arm.com/register) is required
- A Windows machine
- Installation of [Arm Keil MDK](https://learn.arm.com/install-guides/mdk/) with an active MDK-Community license
- Installation of the [Corstone-300 Ecosystem FVP](https://learn.arm.com/install-guides/fm_fvp/eco_fvp/)

## Summary
You’ll debug a Cortex-M Blinky application in µVision. First, you’ll build the project, start a debug session, and use hardware breakpoints. Then, you’ll use Event Recorder, Serial Wire Viewer (SWV), and Embedded Trace Macrocell (ETM) to inspect events, real-time data, execution history, and faults. Finally, you’ll use ULINKplus to measure core clock, power, and code-section performance.

## Frequently asked questions

**How do I know the Blinky project built correctly before I start debugging?**

Select **Build (F7)** and verify it completes without errors. When the build succeeds, select **Start a Debug Session (Ctrl+F5)** and **Run (F5)** the application.

**What should I check if I don't see any SWV data?**

SWV isn’t supported in simulation mode. Connect a debug adapter to real target hardware and use SWV there.

**Where do Event Recorder printf messages appear, and what does my project need?**

Event Recorder text appears in the **Debug (`printf`) Viewer** window. Your code must call the Event Recorder API or use components already annotated (such as MDK‑Middleware, Keil RTX5, or CMSIS‑FreeRTOS). Event Recorder requires some system RAM.

**How do I limit ETM trace capture to a specific code region?**

In the **Disassembly** window or C source, add a **TraceRun (ETM)** tracepoint where capture should start and a **TraceSuspend (ETM)** tracepoint where it should stop. µVision records instructions, branches, exceptions, and interrupts between those tracepoints.

**How do I configure ULINKplus to capture power measurements?**

ULINKplus adds core clock measurement and power measurement that you can use with Event **Event Statistics** to profile code sections. Configure the adapter with a debug initialization script that runs when debug mode starts. For board connections, refer to the ULINKplus documentation.