https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/Smart Spaces Design Challenge invites engineers to develop innovative solutions using NXP’s FRDM MCX A Series (A15X) development kit to create a smart space, smart warehouse or tackle a building automation problem. Apply now.en-USTelligent Community 12https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56417/no-connection-to-chips-debug-port-on-the-mcxn236/232435Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:30:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:4b19c878-284d-49e9-892f-17a75a64a1ebskruglewiczUPDATE STATUS on the problem Success What was the reason? Turns out there were multiple versions of the MCU-Link firmware on my troubled PC. And as I found two Common Causes of Persistent Debugging Connection Failures may be the reason for persistent debugging problems: Corrupted or Conflicting USB/Debug Drivers: Drivers (MCU-Link / CMSIS-DAP / WinUSB) on the original PC may be corrupted or conflicting. This can result from prior installations of probes from NXP, SEGGER, PE Micro, or others. Stale LinkServer Instance or Configuration: The IDE may be repeatedly reusing a stale or mismatched LinkServer instance or configuration on the original PC. This allows the probe to enumerate, but the SWD connection to the target core never actually establishes. What I did to get it working without getting the Error. I went into add/remove programs and noticed there were 3 versions of the MCU-Link Firmware install on my PC Here is the program screen showing 3 versions! I uninstalled all but Mcu-Llnk firmware V3.148 MCUXpresso ID V25.6 I didn't need the other tools. Now debug does not get the error as I described and works all the time? SUCCESS !!! I'm back on track with debugging on the MCXN236https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56417/no-connection-to-chips-debug-port-on-the-mcxn236/232434Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:27:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:097308ca-b425-441e-a812-4482f11d46b6skruglewiczUPDATE STATUS on this problem It works on the new PC with a clean MCUXpresso + SDK install, so the board and probe are fine, and the root cause is almost certainly something broken or conflicting on the original PC’s toolchain/driver side rather than the hardware. Brief summary On a new PC I installed MCUXpresso (24.12) and the SDK (24.12.00), connected the FRDM‑MCXN236, built an example, and debug worked immediately. On the original PC I have MCUXpresso 25.6 with SDK 25.09.00, and despite reinstalling, updating LinkServer, trying LinkFlash, firmware updates, and ISP/bootloader mode, you still get Ee(42). Could not connect to core / No connection to chip's debug port .That confirms the FRDM‑MCXN236 and MCU‑Link firmware are good and isolates the problem to the original Windows environment. Likely causes on the original PC Most probable categories, given that the exact same board works elsewhere: Corrupted or conflicting USB/debug drivers (MCU‑Link / CMSIS‑DAP / WinUSB) on the original PC, possibly from prior NXP, SEGGER, PE Micro, or other probe installs. A stale or mismatched LinkServer instance or config on the original PC that the IDE keeps reusing, so the probe enumerates but SWD never actually connects to the target core. Security/IT software (AV, endpoint protection, USB control) on the original PC interfering with USB enumeration or blocking the debug interface, while the new laptop is more “clean. Leftover MCUXpresso or SDK fragments from original versions in different paths, causing the IDE to point at the wrong debug driver or XML/config for MCXN236 even though the latest SDK is installed. I have researched a few things I could try which I will and update this post. so stay tunedhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56325/problems---using-mcuxpresso-ide-with-mcxa153-and-mcxn236-on-the-same-pc/232433Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:13:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:db46a685-d4a8-4d56-a828-1880268fd525skruglewiczThe problem manifested itself before I installed the IDE v24? that I installed in the hopes to fix my problemhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56325/problems---using-mcuxpresso-ide-with-mcxa153-and-mcxn236-on-the-same-pc/232406Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:01:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:0f08fc75-47f3-4a79-b117-e39560239f03Jan CumpsThe strange thing is that you have an older version of both the IDE and debug software installed after a newer version.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56325/problems---using-mcuxpresso-ide-with-mcxa153-and-mcxn236-on-the-same-pc/232405Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:50:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:f4be474a-070b-47df-9387-7427c10e70adskruglewiczwrong comment see: NO connection to chips debug port on the MCXN236?https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232302Sun, 07 Dec 2025 14:35:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:022eadae-78ff-4744-803f-c3541753d810robogaryFantastic project ideashttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232290Sat, 06 Dec 2025 01:46:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:9295b11d-3d0b-470e-837a-f1cfe56a98c7skruglewiczFirst of all, A huge thanks to JoRatcliffe and cstanton for putting together such a successful and enjoyable challenge. The road was a bit rocky at first, but in spite of the bumps you both pulled it off and created a really engaging experience for everyone.​ At first there was some hesitation and confusion about the new format of 5+ forum posts plus a project instead of the older 5–10 blog approach, but in practice it has turned out to make a lot of sense for this kind of challenge. The structure encouraged more frequent interaction, troubleshooting, and sharing along the way, which really added to the community feel.​ Work will definitely continue on the project implementation, and another MCXN236 is needed now that the current one has effectively become a brick. If there happens to be a spare MCXN236 lying around, @cstanton , feel free to send it this way—it would be great to fully realize the edge node now that there is a much better understanding of the platform. A big thank you to everyone behind the scenes – the judges, reviewers, community managers, and all the folks at element14 and NXP who made this challenge possible and kept everything running smoothly. Special appreciation goes out to anyone who takes the time to review my Adaptive Environmental Monitoring and Smart Access Control project. Your feedback and insights are incredibly valuable as work continues on the implementation and refinement of this system. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, suggestions, and any technical feedback as this project evolves from prototype to a more complete solution. The collaborative spirit of this community has been amazing, and it's exciting to keep building on what was started here. Thank you all again for this opportunity and recognition!https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232289Sat, 06 Dec 2025 01:04:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:0b095ad9-dfdc-4aac-b578-04f79ca2b0c0skruglewiczWarm congratulations, @yamanoorsai – fantastic work on your project and the finisher recognition.​ Your TinyML exhaust fan concept is very inspiring, and the way you approached low-power smart ventilation is going to be a big help as work continues on implementing my design. The clear documentation and practical focus make it a great reference, and it is exciting to keep learning from what you have built. Thanks Steve Khttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232288Sat, 06 Dec 2025 00:56:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:959e85ef-13af-4e60-944e-2d82328f63easkruglewiczThank you so much, @kmikemoo – that means a lot​ The spirit of cooperation and open sharing you mentioned was exactly what made this challenge such a great experience, and your encouragement and participation were a big part of that atmosphere. It was a pleasure building and learning alongside everyone, and comments like yours really highlight what makes the element14 community special. thanks Steve Khttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232287Sat, 06 Dec 2025 00:51:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:bbce2610-57e1-48eb-94c3-0b3de5e2285eskruglewiczThanks dougw , I'm excited to get the loot.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232286Sat, 06 Dec 2025 00:49:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:55ec7600-4e30-482e-8325-4e58c56159f4skruglewiczGOOD JOB balajivan1995 Huge congratulations, on a truly well-deserved result in the Smart Spaces Design Challenge.​ Your project and writeups were impressive, but what stood out just as much was your willingness to collaborate and support others throughout the competition. Your forum posts were a big help in understanding the IDE and getting the most out of the NXP FRDM MCX boards, and you always came back with thoughtful answers to questions.​ Thank you for being such a generous and engaged member of the community, and for helping make this challenge more enjoyable and accessible for fellow participants. Well done, and hope there are many more projects and wins ahead for you. looking forward to share more of my trials and tribulations with the IDE and NXP FRDM MCX eval board.. I might have to breakdown on order another MCXN236 board, as you know mine is not able to flash or debug. I plan to keep working on my project and get it implemented. You Rock! skruglewiczhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232285Fri, 05 Dec 2025 22:54:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:b9f4167c-7fae-4c1c-9ece-f6e6a4961a3byamanoorsaiThanks. Congratulations to skruglewicz balajivan1995 This contest was absolute fun.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232275Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:18:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:97033022-b9ce-4d48-9c41-cef2a3671b9dkmikemooCongratulations to skruglewicz , balajivan1995 and yamanoorsai . I think what I admired most about this design challenge was the cooperation and open sharing of information. Well done!https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcement/232271Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:43:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:b39d5504-80ed-4d95-969a-7664125be40adougwCongratulations to the winners. Have fun with the loot.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---challengers-announcement/232269Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:21:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:d8fcc169-c9df-4bbf-baf7-6fd2b3d6ff92balajivan1995Thank you, guys! Especially for following up with the board and getting it properly delivered and for the timely announcement as well! This was indeed a really challenging one, wish I could have completed more of what I intended. Congratulations to skruglewicz and yamanoorsai .https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56496/smart-spaces-design-challenge---winners-announcementFri, 05 Dec 2025 11:55:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:807bf771-c00d-4e84-8f58-843b1baa26dcJoRatcliffeHi everybody, it’s time to announce our latest design challenge winners – our Smart Spaces winners! First, let’s take a quick look back at the prizes and the competition details. The Prizes Prizes are subject to change but will be of similar price and style. Prize Prize Category Grand Prize Winner and Runner Up Approximate Value $1160 USD * Nest Home Automation kit, Google Nest CCTV and Doorbell set. Finisher Prize** To be a finisher you must complete 5 blogs and show us testing the resilience of their project. Approximate Value $30 USD* MultiComp Pro Multimeter Set *Or local equivalent **Grand Prize and Runner Up winners will also earn the finisher prize. The Challenge For the chance to win one of the prizes above, Challengers were tasked with using an NXP FRDM MCX A and an N Series (A15X) to create a building automation project. Projects that contained the most creative prototype – along with posts that were media-rich – would be viewed more favorably in the judging process. Now, it’s time to reveal the winners: Grand Prize Winner Adaptive Environmental Monitoring and Smart Access Control skruglewicz designed an intelligent building automation solution using a distributed architecture, with the NXP FRDM MCX A153 as the central hub and multiple FRDM MCX N236 boards as edge sensor nodes. Runner Up Destination Dispatch Elevators balajivan1995 created an elevator system for optimizing usage to reduce the inefficiencies and crowding inherent in traditional elevator systems. Congratulations to our winners! A big shout-out as well to our design challenge finisher! Finisher TinyML enabled Low Power Exhaust Fans for Smart Buildings yamanoorsai made a prototype smart exhaust fan that adjusts its speed based on the building's air quality for applications such as 3D printer farms and crowded rooms, where air quality can fluctuate. E14Alice will be in touch to arrange the shipment of the prizes A big thanks to everyone who participated, contributed and discussed during the design challenge, and thank you also to NXP for their support.design challengeNXP FRDM MCX ANXP FRDM MCX A & MCX N development kit.Smart Spaces BuildingAutomation ChallengenxpNXP FRDM MCX Nhttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56476/smart-spaces---using-rt-thread-with-frdm--mcxa153/232242Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:44:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:02830d9a-0295-484b-acf5-fde470373858embeddedguyCongratulations on your first steps with RT-Thread RTOS. I know this RTOS but have not yet given it a try.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/f/forum/56485/dds-elevator---measuring-up/232231Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:27:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:3757be8c-3cfe-4f67-bd84-883813eaa948balajivan1995The original plan was to place the entire PCB board on top of an elevator model. Three elevators placed side by side, travelling up and down. Each tof sensor will be placed on top of each of the elevators so that ESP32 can calculate the distance the cabin is currently in. If the lift is in topmost floor, the sensor reading will be around 15-25cm, the next immediate floor will be at 165-180cm and so on. (In terms of practical values) Let's say, if the person in the topmost floor wants to move to the next floor, the main controller will start the motor in reverse direction so that the cabin will be lowered. If the cabin reaches the distance of 165-180cm, it will assume the cabin has reached the destination and it will start engaging the landing procedure. Image taken online for reference and added text overlay.https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/m/managed-videos/150828Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:25:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:e8f7bd42-f57c-44d4-a662-27597f3d1db4yamanoorsaihttps://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-spaces-design-challenge/m/managed-videos/150827Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:25:00 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:2bb39c92-d254-4506-926b-5afc38cd554byamanoorsai