Introduction**

Debugging SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) initialization can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with microcontrollers. In this article, we will explore some common issues and tips for debugging SDRAM initialization on microcontrollers.

Have a Hard Fault Handler that outputs actionable information

When debugging SDRAM initialization, it's essential to have a hard fault handler in place that outputs actionable information. This can help you identify the root cause of the issue and take corrective action.

Make sure the FPU is enabled

Another crucial step is to ensure that the FPU (Floating-Point Unit) is enabled. This is particularly important when working with SDRAM, as it requires accurate calculations to function correctly.

Look at what gets moved or loaded in SDRAM

To better understand what's going on with your SDRAM initialization, take a closer look at what gets moved or loaded into the memory region. This can help you identify any potential issues and make adjustments accordingly.

Makes sure the SDRAM is initialized in SystemInit() not later in main()

Lastly, ensure that the SDRAM is properly initialized within the SystemInit() function and not later in the main() function. This will prevent any potential issues with memory allocation and initialization.

Tips and Tricks

If you're still struggling to debug your SDRAM initialization, here are some additional tips and tricks:

• Buy me a coffee (or three) on PayPal or Venmo
• Upvote any posts that you find helpful, as it shows what's working

Debugging with Video

For a more visual approach, check out the following video debugging tutorials:

Error Debugging
Faults Report Panel

In this tutorial, we're shown how to debug SDRAM initialization by analyzing the registers and call stack.

Analyzing the Map File

To better understand what's going on with your SDRAM memory region, analyze the map file. You can do this by checking the map file, which provides information about the memory layout of your program.

For example, you might see something like this:

Execution Region RW_RAM1 (Exec base: 0xd0000000, Load base: 0x0800e9c0, Size: 0x00000000, Max: 0x00800000, ABSOLUTE)
**** No section assigned to this execution region ****

This shows that the SDRAM memory region is not assigned a specific section.

Using Absolute Addresses

One way to debug SDRAM initialization is to use absolute addresses. For example:

uint32_t *bufersdram = (uint32_t *) 0xD0000000;

This allows you to access and manipulate the SDRAM memory region directly.

Moving FMC&SDRAM Initialization

To fix issues with your SDRAM initialization, try moving the FMC and SDRAM initialization code to the SystemInit() function. This can help ensure that the SDRAM is properly initialized before it's used in your program.

Adding Variables to SDRAM

Finally, add some variables to the SDRAM memory region to see if the issue persists. For example:

uint16_t buffersdram[10] __attribute__ ((section("SDRAM")));

This allows you to test and debug the SDRAM initialization code.

Debugging SDRAM initialization on microcontrollers can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it's achievable. Remember to:

• Have a hard fault handler that outputs actionable information
• Make sure the FPU is enabled
• Look at what gets moved or loaded in SDRAM
• Ensure the SDRAM is initialized in SystemInit() not later in main()
• Use absolute addresses and variables to test and debug the SDRAM initialization code

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to debugging your SDRAM initialization and ensuring that it works correctly in your program.