# Get started with Arm Development Studio

## In this learning path

- [Introduction](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/armds/)
- [Import and build example project](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/armds/build/)
- [Debug the example](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/armds/debug/)
- [Other compilers and project types](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/armds/misc/)
- [Next Steps](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/embedded-and-microcontrollers/armds/_next-steps/)

## About this Learning Path

| Skill level:      | Introductory                |
|-------------------|-----------------------------|
| Reading time:     | 30 min                      |
| Last updated:     | 08 Jul 2026                 |

| Author:          | Ronan Synnott, Arm [LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/in/ronansynnott) |
|------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Arm IP:          | [Cortex-A](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Application%20Processors), [Cortex-R](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Real-Time%20Processors), [Cortex-M](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Microcontrollers), [Neoverse](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Infrastructure%20Processors) |
| Tags:            | [Performance and Architecture](https://learn.arm.com/tag/performance-and-architecture), [Baremetal](https://learn.arm.com/tag/baremetal), [Arm Development Studio](https://learn.arm.com/tag/arm-development-studio), [Arm Compiler for Embedded](https://learn.arm.com/tag/arm-compiler-for-embedded), [Arm Fast Models](https://learn.arm.com/tag/arm-fast-models), [DSTREAM](https://learn.arm.com/tag/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:
- Import and build an example project
- Debug the example code running on a Fixed Virtual Platform (FVP)
- Debug the example code running on a board with a DSTREAM debug probe

## Prerequisites
Before starting, you will need the following:
- Some familiarity with embedded programming is assumed.

## Summary
You’ll launch Arm Development Studio, import and build a supplied example, and debug it on a Cortex-M Fixed Virtual Platform (FVP) or on hardware via a DSTREAM probe. Using the ready-to-use `startup_Cortex-M3_AC6_FVP.launch` configuration, you’ll inspect the debug settings and start a session that runs without target hardware on an MPS2+-based Cortex-M3 (AN385) model. You’ll also see where to adjust the project to use a different Arm Compiler for Embedded version when required. By the end, you’ll build and execute under the IDE with a working debug connection on either an FVP or a supported board.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do I launch Arm Development Studio from the command line?
Run `armds_ide` from a terminal to open the IDE.

### What should I do when the workspace configuration pane appears?
Click **Finish** to accept the default setup. The workspace is the base directory where the IDE stores your projects and build output.

### Do I need target hardware to run the example?
No. Use the provided Fixed Virtual Platforms to execute and debug the example without hardware. If hardware is available, you can run it on a board using a DSTREAM debug probe.

### Where is the FVP debug configuration for the example?
Open `startup_Cortex-M3_AC6_FVP.launch` in the project folder. Double-click the file to inspect the predefined settings before starting a debug session.

### How do I select a different Arm Compiler for Embedded version for the project?
Install the required compiler version using the Arm Compiler for Embedded install guide. Then open **Project > Properties** and change the compiler used by the project in the build settings.