WHITE PAPER
Single Board Computer (SBC) Safety Certification Strategies
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© 2026 Mercury Systems, Inc. 8224.00E-0626-wp-SBC-Intel
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SUMMARY
This white paper presented three certification strategies
for Intel-based bootloaders: (1) a fully certifiable bootloader,
(2) a Pre-OS Checker for runtime integrity verification, and
(3) a structured approach leveraging DO-178C alternative
methods for COTS software certification. The third strategy—
formalized in this edition—enables controlled use of Intel's
Slim Bootloader, supported by a Software Assurance Case,
delivering a practical balance between assurance and
development efficiency.
For programs using DO-178C as the certification baseline,
Mercury recommends applying its flexibility to adopt alternative
methods (§12.3) and engaging with certification authorities to
secure approval for the selected means of compliance, including
credit for the approaches outlined in this paper.
Beyond these strategies, Mercury 's strength lies in its fully
integrated solution—combining hardware, bootloader, and
OS board support package (BSP) into a cohesive, certifiable
platform. This integration simplifies development for
application teams and third-party providers such as RTOS
vendors, ensuring compatibility, traceability, and predictable
behavior across all system layers. The result: accelerated
development cycles, reduced integration risk, and a clearer
path to certification in mission-critical environments.
About Mercury
Mercury Systems (Nasdaq: MRCY) is a leading technology company serving the aerospace and defense
industry, positioned at the intersection of high tech and defense. Headquartered in Andover, MA, we deliver
solutions that power a broad range of aerospace and defense programs, optimized for mission success in some
of the most challenging and demanding environments. We envision, create and deliver innovative technology
solutions purpose-built to meet our customers' most-pressing high-tech needs.
Mercury Systems – Innovation that matters®
Mercur y Systems is a global leader in aerospace and defense electronics, providing breakthrough
capabilities in signal and data processing. With a four-decade legacy of innovation and silicon
to system solutions that span RF front ends to user displays, Mercur y accelerates commercial
technology adoption to enable aerospace and defense organizations to create integrated, powerful,
and secure systems for tomorrow 's mission challenges.
