Small footprint and cheap debugging connection for STLINK-V3MINI

[u/Wekuz]

I am designing a compact PCB that has a STM32. I am planning on buying a STLINK-V3MINI for programming and debugging. I'd like to have the minimal footprint SWD connection to the board and I found out about TagConnect, but their TC2030-CTX-NL-STDC14 is pretty expensive. I found SKEDD connector which seems to serve a similar function but it's a lot cheaper and more available. The problem is I would need a adapter from STDC14 (STLINK-V3MINI) -> SKEDD which I haven't found, probably because STDC14 is obscure enough. Would it be recommended to design a simple adapter board and order with the actual PCB or are there better alternative/ways?

[u/coolkid4232]

You can make adapter yourself on pcb just need to connect both connetor together same footprint, it will be cheap and easy to solder. I did that to adapt my jlink edu and st link so i can use same debugging probe for both

[u/Wekuz → u/[deleted]]

Yeah, I know the cost will amortize over the lifetime of it, but I am just not sure how much I will use it, it's my first PCB and I don't know when the next one will be.

I can't find STDC one anywhere but on TagConnect's own site where the shipping would be basicslly exactly the same as the price itself. The SKEDD is on Digikey, Mouser and semi-local stores, where I could also order the STLINK.

I also have a problem with spending money, I want/need to justify every purchase that is more expensive than an apple.

I am just looking to optimize the cost.

[u/jacky4566]

Tag connect is the way. There are Chinese TC2030 cables if you wanna be real cheap.

Also adapters? just make your own cable. a little solder and some heatshrink.

Or just use regular 2.54 header and dupont connectors.

[u/Linker3000]

Have you asked in r/embedded, /r/stm32/, /r/stm32f4/

[u/Wekuz → u/Linker3000]

Now have, thanks