The Arm Keil Microcontroller Development Kit (Keil MDK)
The Arm Keil Microcontroller Development Kit (Keil MDK) is a comprehensive tool for engineers and developers involved in embedded systems and machine learning projects. Supporting over 10,000 microcontrollers from 38 different manufacturers, Keil MDK provides the versatility and reliability needed in contemporary software development. It is highly valued for its efficiency, making it a very important tool for developers.
To address increasing demands, Arm has released MDK version 6, which is optimized for the entire range of Arm Cortex-M and Ethos-U processors. This new version integrates features from the previous IDE and introduces numerous innovative solutions.
UBL (User-based License)
One of the key advantages of MDK v6 is the ability to work in the cloud and the changed licensing method. The new UBL license allows users to work from anywhere without hardware limitations. User-based licensing ties the right to use the Arm product directly to the user. For example, a single license can be used with a service account to automatically create and test products using Arm development tools, on any number of devices.
Keil Studio Environment
The most significant change in version 6 is the access to the Keil Studio IDE. Developers now have the option to use either the proven μVision and the modern Keil Studio, which supports CMSIS technologies and innovative workflows for embedded systems. Additionally, Keil Studio expands compatibility to include Linux and macOS systems, a significant enhancement over μVision, which was limited to Windows.
Keil Studio Cloud further provides a workspace for your code, enabling project editing from any computer, collaboration with team members, and exporting for local use. It also supports project compilation with the Arm® Compiler for Embedded and allows debugging directly from supported browsers without requiring software installation.
New Features in MDK v6
- Keil MDK is more than just a toolchain: It's compatible with all major operating systems and includes Keil Studio and Arm Virtual Hardware, making test-driven programming through simulations easier. Keil RTX5 real-time operating system and free middleware allows for quicker and more efficient development of embedded systems.
- Flexible code generation: Keil MDK supports multiple toolchains, including Arm Compiler for Embedded, GCC, and LLVM, enabling switching between them to select the most efficient one.
- Cost-effective solutions: Features that were previously exclusive to expensive packages are now available in more budget-friendly versions. Middleware is included starting with the Community edition, and FuSa is included with the Professional edition.
FuSa Included – MDK v6 Professional Version
Functional safety ensures that protective functions work correctly in response to specific signals or failures, minimizing the risk of injury. To prevent failures, it's important to use qualified software, a verified compiler, and follow strict coding guidelines as defined by safety standards.
The Arm FuSa Run-Time System (RTS) is a certified runtime environment designed for microcontroller applications and meeting the requirements of functional safety standards, such as ISO 26262 and IEC 61508, etc. The system is integrated with the Keil MDK platform and supports the development of embedded systems for key sectors, including automotive, medical, and industrial. FuSa RTS offers advanced features, including memory protection, error handling, and support for safety architectures.
In previous versions, FuSa software was available as a separate purchase product. Now it is part of the MDK v6 Professional edition and is provided at no additional cost. This is a very attractive offer for developers working in industries related to functional safety.
Keil MDK v6 Editions
MDK v6 is available in three editions:
- Community (free for non-commercial use),
- Essential (supporting all Cortex-M cores, for commercial use),
- Professional (with AVH and FuSa tools, for commercial use).
Conclusions
The latest version of Arm Keil MDK v6 is gradually replacing version 5 and has set the direction for embedded software development. The new licensing model removes hardware limitations by assigning licenses directly to users, significantly increasing their work flexibility. Additionally, features such as cloud work and support for Linux and macOS systems make this version extremely versatile.
Moreover, FuSa software, which was previously available only at a high cost, is now part of the Professional version. This makes advanced tools accessible to a wider group of users without incurring additional costs during purchase. All this makes Keil MDK v6 a very attractive offer, and with its strong market position, it sets the main trends and delivers the most advanced technology in the shortest time.
PROMOTION
Only now – discounts up to 20% on new licenses!
- 12% discount on the annual license for Development Studio UBL and Keil MDK v6
- 20% discount on the 3-year license for Development Studio UBL and Keil MDK v6
Offer valid until January 30, 2025.
Take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade your work tools
