Build, flash, and debug ARM Cortex-M firmware without leaving VS Code.
MakerBridge bridges the gap between your editor and your hardware. One extension handles the entire workflow — compile your code, flash it to the board, and hit F5 to debug — no terminal gymnastics required.
Features
Setup Wizard — MakerBridge: Setup Workspace configures your project in seconds: pick your target MCU, toolchain, build mode, and debug settings. Everything is saved to makerbridge.json.
One-Click Build — Compiles firmware using your local ARM GCC toolchain and GNU Make.
One-Click Flash — Flashes .hex files to your board via the bundled flash bridge (powered by pyocd).
F5 Debug — Automatically generates a Cortex-Debug launch configuration. Set breakpoints, inspect registers, and step through code — just press F5.
Sidebar Panel — Live board status, target info, and action buttons in the Activity Bar.
Status Bar — Probe connection indicator at a glance.
Quick Start
Install MakerBridge (this extension) and Cortex-Debug
Open your firmware project folder in VS Code
Run MakerBridge: Setup Workspace from the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P)
Click Build in the sidebar (or MakerBridge: Build)
winget install GnuWin32.Make (Windows) or apt install make (Linux)
Python 3.8+
Required by pyocd and the flash bridge
Tip: The setup wizard will check for these and guide you through installation.
Supported Hardware
MakerBridge works with any ARM Cortex-M target supported by pyocd. During setup, pick from common targets or enter a custom pyocd target name.
Tested boards include:
Infineon CY8CKIT-062S2-43012 (PSoC6)
More boards welcome — open an issue to add yours!
How It Works
MakerBridge bundles a lightweight Python HTTP server (the "flash bridge") that wraps pyocd. The extension starts it automatically and talks to it over localhost:
