# 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?
After completing this Learning Path, you'll be able to perform the following tasks:
- 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'll need the following prerequisites:
- 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.