This paper proposes an enhanced SDL subset for the implementation of embedded signalling systems and describes a novel methodology for its translation to Java based applications. Although SDL is widely used in the telecommunications field, it is also now being applied to a diverse number of other areas ranging over aircraft, train control, medical and adaptive systems. Embedded signalling systems form a class of applications in the telecommunications field with specific requirements within the SDL domain. Although SDL is commonly used to specify embedded signalling systems, typically it is only a subset of the SDL language that is relevant. Within this contribution the key requirements of embedded signalling systems are identified and an enhanced subset of SDL 2000 is proposed for their specification and implementation. Additionally, this paper proposes a methodology for the translation of SDL systems based on this enhanced SDL subset, to Java applications using an SDL to Java Translator for supporting emerging Java based applications. The current proposal does not contradict with any SDL specification, but instead it is complementary to current SDL standards considering together design and implementation requirements of embedded signalling systems.