Firmware Services

At Sheridan Technologies, we specialize in firmware development that powers the future. From industrial automation and aerospace systems to consumer electronics and medical devices, our team engineers elegant solutions for complex hardware challenges.

We build reliable, efficient, and secure firmware that seamlessly integrates with your hardware—whether you’re building a new product or optimizing an existing one.

Unlike app development, firmware deals with real-time constraints, memory limits, and direct hardware control.

Secure code that was written correctly the first time is critical for long-term reliability since it is often impractical to patch or to update it later.

Faulty firmware can brick devices, compromise safety, or cause massive recalls.

It’s the critical software embedded in chips that allows devices function.

Selecting Appropriate Firmware Architecture

Bare Metal

For embedded systems where size, speed, and power consumption are paramount, we offer bare-metal firmware development. This approach allows us to write firmware that interfaces directly with hardware registers—without the overhead of an operating system.Bare-metal firmware is ideal for:Battery-powered or energy-harvesting sensorsUltra-low-latency signal acquisition or processingMicrocontrollers with constrained flash and RAMSimple devices with fixed functionality and fast startup requirementsWe carefully structure bare-metal code using state machines, interrupts, and hardware abstraction layers (HAL) to maintain clarity and scalability, even in minimalist designs. Whether it's a low-power wireless node, custom USB HID device, or a standalone motor controller, we ensure rock-solid performance and reliability.

RTOS

For time-critical and high-reliability embedded systems, we specialize in developing firmware for leading Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) such as FreeRTOS, Zephyr, ThreadX, NuttX, and others. These RTOS platforms provide deterministic behavior, optimized task scheduling, and robust inter-process communication—making them essential for applications where timing, reliability, and responsiveness are non-negotiable.Our RTOS-based firmware solutions are ideal for use cases such as:Medical devices with real-time monitoringIndustrial automation and control systemsIoT edge devicesAerospace and defense avionicsAutomotive systems requiring AUTOSAR-like architectureWe carefully architect task priorities, interrupts, memory management, and power efficiency to ensure that your device operates with stability and speed—even under load. Our team is also adept at modular RTOS configurations that help reduce boot time and memory usage while maximizing portability across hardware platforms.

Linux

For more sophisticated embedded systems, particularly those requiring complex user interfaces, file systems, connectivity stacks, or multi-threaded applications, Embedded Linux provides the flexibility and power of a full operating system.We deliver robust Linux-based firmware solutions that balance performance and development speed using platforms like:Buildroot, Yocto, and OpenWRT for custom Linux distributionsRaspberry Pi, BeagleBone, i.MX, and other ARM-based SBCsKernel module and driver development for custom hardware interfacesIntegration of middleware such as MQTT, OPC UA, Modbus, and CANopenOur Linux firmware expertise spans both user space and kernel space development. From building custom device trees and BSPs to writing low-latency C/C++ applications, we help you unlock the full potential of Linux for edge computing, industrial gateways, AI/ML inference at the edge, and more.

Languages

We employ a diverse set of programming languages to develop firmware solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements. Our selection is guided by factors such as hardware constraints, performance goals, and system complexity. This strategic approach ensures that we deliver efficient, secure, and scalable firmware solutions optimized for your specific application.

C

As a foundational language in embedded systems, C offers direct hardware access and efficient memory management. Its simplicity and performance make it ideal for real-time applications where resources are limited.

C++

Building upon C, C++ introduces object-oriented features, enabling modular and scalable firmware development. It's particularly effective for complex systems requiring abstraction without compromising performance.

Rust

Rust is gaining traction in embedded development due to its emphasis on memory safety and concurrency. Its ownership model helps prevent common bugs at compile time, making it suitable for critical applications.

Python / Lua

While not traditionally used for low-level firmware. Languages like Lua, MicroPython, and even Python are valuable for rapid prototyping and scripting in embedded environments.

Javascript / HTML

JavaScript, plays a crucial role in developing web-based interfaces for embedded devices. These interfaces allow users to access and configure devices remotely via embedded web portals.

Choosing the Right Hardware Architecture

At Sheridan Technologies, we specialize in firmware development across a diverse range of microcontroller platforms, enabling us to tailor solutions that precisely meet the unique requirements of each project. Our expertise encompasses industry-leading microcontroller vendors, ensuring optimal performance, scalability, and reliability for your embedded systems.

ARM Cortex-M0 and M0+

The Cortex-M0 and M0+ cores are designed for ultra-low power consumption and cost-sensitive applications. With minimal silicon area and power requirements, they are well-suited for battery-powered devices like wearables and IoT sensors.

ARM Cortex-M3

Offering a balance between performance and power efficiency, the Cortex-M3 core is ideal for real-time applications requiring deterministic behavior. Its efficient interrupt handling and low-latency response make it suitable for industrial control systems and automotive applications.

ARM Cortex-M4

The Cortex-M4 core enhances the capabilities of the M3 by adding digital signal processing (DSP) instructions and an optional floating-point unit (FPU). This makes it particularly effective for applications involving audio processing, motor control, and complex sensor data analysis.

ARM Cortex-M7

As the highest performance member of the Cortex-M family, the M7 core offers superior computational capabilities, including advanced DSP and FPU features. It's designed for applications demanding high-speed processing, such as advanced automotive systems, industrial automation, and high-end audio devices.

Texas Instruments (TI)

We develop firmware for TI's extensive range of microcontrollers, including the MSP430 and MSPM0 series. Utilizing TI's Code Composer Studio™ and LaunchPad™ development kits, we create efficient, low-power applications suitable for various industries.

STMicroelectronics (STM32)

Our team is proficient in STM32 microcontrollers, leveraging tools like STM32CubeMX and STM32CubeIDE to develop firmware that meets the demands of complex applications. We utilize ST's comprehensive embedded software packages to accelerate development and ensure robust performance.

NXP Semiconductors

We harness NXP's MCUXpresso SDK and IDEs to develop firmware for their Arm Cortex-M-based microcontrollers. Our experience includes creating applications for general-purpose, crossover, and wireless-enabled MCUs, ensuring seamless integration and functionality.

Silicon Labs

Our expertise extends to Silicon Labs' 8-bit and 32-bit microcontrollers, where we utilize the Simplicity Studio IDE and comprehensive SDKs to develop firmware for IoT devices. We focus on creating energy-efficient applications that leverage Silicon Labs' robust development tools.

Nordic Semiconductor

We specialize in firmware development for Nordic's nRF series, including the nRF52 and nRF91 families. Using the nRF Connect SDK, we build applications that support Bluetooth Low Energy, Thread, Zigbee, and cellular IoT, ensuring reliable wireless communication.

Espressif Systems

Our team is adept at developing firmware for Espressif's ESP32 series, utilizing the ESP-IDF framework to create applications with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. We focus on delivering secure, over-the-air updatable firmware suitable for a wide range of IoT applications.

Firmware Services