Embedded Software Development
Powering complex systems with robust, reliable software
Dependable Solutions for Demanding Environments
At Rufilla, embedded software is engineered for environments where reliability is non-negotiable. Since 2009, we’ve developed software for smart energy systems, medical devices, transportation infrastructure, and scientific instrumentation.
Our work spans bare-metal control, RTOS platforms, and embedded Linux systems — delivering performance, stability, security, and maintainability.
Our BSP Approach
Our Embedded Software Expertise
Embedded Linux Systems
Our embedded Linux development expertise spans from kernel customisation to complete platform creation. Using Yocto Project methodologies, we build production-ready Linux systems tailored specifically for your hardware and application requirements.
Embedded Linux Systems
Key Capabilities:
Custom Yocto Linux distributions optimised for your target hardware
Kernel configuration and customisation for specific performance requirements
Security hardening with automotive-grade Linux security implementations
Over-the-air update systems using Mender and SWUpdate with Hawkbit
Device tree development for seamless hardware integration
Power management optimisation for battery-powered and energy-efficient systems
Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)
When timing is critical, our RTOS development ensures your system responds predictably and reliably. We work across multiple RTOS platforms, selecting the optimal solution for your performance and resource requirements.
Expertise Includes:
FreeRTOS implementation and customisation
RT-Linux for applications requiring real-time guarantees within Linux environments
Bare-metal RTOS solutions for resource-constrained systems
Task scheduling optimisation and priority management
Inter-process communication design and implementation
Real-time performance analysis and optimisation
Bare-Metal Programming
For applications requiring maximum performance and minimal overhead, our bare-metal development creates efficient, direct hardware control solutions. This approach eliminates operating system overhead whilst providing complete control over system behaviour.
Core Services:
Microcontroller programming across ARM Cortex, x86, and specialised platforms
Hardware abstraction layer development for portability
Interrupt service routine design and optimisation
Memory management for resource-constrained environments
Direct hardware register manipulation and control
Assembly language optimisation where performance is critical
Driver Development
Seamless hardware integration requires expertly crafted drivers. Our device driver development creates the essential bridge between your hardware capabilities and software applications.
Driver Development Services:
Linux kernel drivers for custom hardware components
Character and block device drivers for specialised peripherals
Network device drivers for custom communication interfaces
USB and PCI drivers for standard interface compliance
SPI, I2C, and UART drivers for sensor and peripheral integration
GPIO and interrupt handling for real-time hardware interaction
Application Software
Application Development Focus:
Multi-threaded application architecture for complex system requirements
Protocol implementation for industry standards and custom communications
User interface development for embedded displays and control systems
Data processing and analytics for IoT and smart device applications
Security implementation throughout application layers
Integration with cloud services and remote management systems
Beyond system-level programming, we create the embedded applications that deliver your product’s core functionality. Our application development balances performance with maintainability, ensuring long-term system reliability.
System Optimisation
Performance matters in embedded systems. Our system optimisation services ensure your software runs efficiently within hardware constraints whilst meeting functional requirements.
Optimisation Services:
Performance profiling to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
Memory usage optimisation for resource-constrained environments
Power consumption reduction for battery-powered applications
Boot-time optimisation for faster system start-up
Real-time performance tuning for time-critical applications
Code size reduction for systems with limited storage
Testing & Validation
Reliable embedded systems require comprehensive testing. Our testing and validation processes ensure your software performs correctly across all operating conditions.
Testing Methodologies:
Unit testing frameworks adapted for embedded environments
Hardware-in-the-loop testing for complete system validation
Stress testing under extreme operating conditions
Security vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
Compliance testing for industry standards and certifications
Automated testing integration with continuous integration systems
Industry Applications
Smart Energy Systems
Our embedded software powers smart energy solutions from individual home energy monitors to grid-scale infrastructure. We’ve developed software for smart meter integration, EV charging systems, and home energy management platforms that help create more efficient energy networks.
Medical and Healthcare Devices
Medical device software requires exceptional reliability and regulatory compliance. Our embedded software powers hospital bed monitoring systems, patient monitoring devices, and other critical healthcare equipment where performance and safety are paramount.
Industrial Automation
From smart factory systems to connected industrial equipment, our embedded software enables the Industrial IoT applications that drive modern manufacturing efficiency. We create software that monitors, controls, and optimises industrial processes in real-time.
Scientific Instrumentation
Working with companies like Oxford Instruments, we’ve developed embedded software for electron microscopes, nano-spectrometers, and other sophisticated scientific equipment. These applications require precise control and reliable performance for critical research applications.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Our software powers critical infrastructure including motorway signage systems and railway safety monitoring equipment. These applications demand the highest levels of reliability, security, and real-time performance – areas where we excel.
Scientific Instrumentation
Working with companies like Oxford Instruments, we’ve developed embedded software for electron microscopes, nano-spectrometers, and other sophisticated scientific equipment. These applications require precise control and reliable performance for critical research applications.
Development Platforms & Technologies
Hardware Platforms
ARM Cortex (A/R/M), x86 embedded, microcontrollers, FPGA integration
Tools
Cross-compilers, debugging/tracing, simulation/emulation toolchains
Protocols
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LoRa, Zigbee, MQTT, Modbus, CAN, TCP/IP, plus custom protocols
The Rufilla Approach to Embedded Software
Quality-First Development
We follow strong coding standards, thorough testing, and clear documentation to ensure reliability and maintainability.
Knowledge Transfer Focus
We provide documentation and training so your team can confidently maintain and extend the software.
Collaborative Development
We work closely with hardware, systems, and product teams to ensure platform-level alignment and smooth integration.
Long-Term Partnership
Many clients stay with us across multiple products, benefiting from continuity and accumulated context.
Ready to Power Your Next Innovation?
We develop embedded software that is reliable, maintainable, and built for real-world deployment. Whether enhancing an existing platform or building a new one, we’re here to help.
Speak with our embedded software engineering team
Frequently Asked Questions
What embedded platforms do you specialise in?
We work across a wide range of embedded platforms including ARM Cortex processors, x86 embedded systems, and various microcontroller families. Our expertise spans from resource-constrained 8-bit systems through to powerful multi-core platforms running complex embedded Linux systems.
How do you approach embedded Linux development?
Our embedded Linux development uses Yocto Project methodologies to create custom, production-ready distributions. We start with hardware requirements analysis, then build optimised Linux systems with security hardening, over-the-air update capabilities, and comprehensive device driver support.
Can you help with real-time system requirements?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience with real-time systems using both dedicated RTOS platforms and real-time Linux implementations. We analyse timing requirements, implement appropriate scheduling strategies, and validate real-time performance through comprehensive testing.
What testing methods do you use for embedded software?
Our embedded software testing combines unit testing, integration testing, hardware-in-the-loop validation, and stress testing under extreme conditions. We also perform security testing and compliance validation where required for your target markets.
How do you ensure software security in embedded systems?
Embedded security is integrated throughout our development process. This includes secure coding practices, vulnerability assessment, secure boot implementation, encrypted communications, and regular security updates through our over-the-air update systems.
Can you work with our existing development team?
Yes, we excel at collaborative development partnerships. Whether you need complete development support or targeted expertise in specific areas like device drivers, RTOS implementation, or system optimisation, we adapt our approach to complement your existing team capabilities.
What documentation do you provide with embedded software?
We provide comprehensive technical documentation including architecture descriptions, API documentation, deployment guides, and maintenance procedures. Our knowledge transfer approach ensures your team can confidently maintain and enhance the software independently.
How do you handle embedded software optimisation?
Our system optimisation process includes performance profiling, memory usage analysis, power consumption measurement, and real-time performance tuning. We identify bottlenecks and implement targeted improvements whilst maintaining code reliability and maintainability.
Do you support legacy system modernisation?
Yes, we help modernise legacy embedded systems by migrating to current platforms, updating security implementations, and improving performance whilst maintaining operational continuity. This includes migrating from older RTOS platforms to modern Linux systems where appropriate.
What ongoing support do you provide after deployment?
We offer comprehensive post-deployment support including software updates, security patches, performance monitoring, and enhancement development. Many clients continue working with us for ongoing maintenance and future development projects.