Otavio Salvador is the author of Embedded Linux Development Using Yocto Project, we got the chance to sit down with him and find out more about his experience of writing with Packt.
Q: How did you become an author for Packt? Tell us about your journey. What was your motivation for writing this book?
Otavio: ‘I became Packt author writing the “Embedded Linux Development Using Yocto Project” book, which is finally in the third edition. The experience was positive and enjoyable, thanks to the support I received throughout the process. It’s worth mentioning that this was the first book in the world on this subject, and it was a remarkable opportunity to share my knowledge and experience in developing embedded Linux systems using Yocto Project with others.
Q: What is the name of your book?
Otavio: Embedded Linux Development Using Yocto Project.
Q: What kind of research did you do, and how long did you spend researching before beginning the book?
Otavio: The research for this book was conducted through hands-on experience working with real customers. I assisted them in developing and setting up their embedded devices and aided vendors in creating SoC BSPs for their customers.
Q: Do you have a blog that readers can follow?
Otavio: I use Twitter (https://twitter.com/otaviosalvador) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/otavio/)
Q: What key takeaways do you want readers to come away with from the book?
Otavio: The key takeaways from the “Embedded Linux Development Using Yocto Project” book is its comprehensive approach towards equipping readers with the necessary skills to develop embedded devices, the invaluable set of guidelines in its final chapter based on years of consulting and development work for various projects and customers in different industries, and its aim to provide readers with a strong foundation of knowledge to tackle the challenges of this field.
Q: Can you share any blogs, websites and forums to help readers gain a holistic view of the tech they are learning?
Otavio: As an embedded Linux developer, keeping up with the latest developments in the Linux kernel, U-Boot, and Linux Weekly News is crucial. It is also beneficial to stay informed by checking out Hacker News, Stack Overflow, and GitHub. Learning about new technologies is essential to being an embedded Linux developer.
Q. Did you face any challenges during the writing process? How did you overcome them?
Otavio: Sometimes, personal struggles or a lack of drive can make productivity challenging. Therefore, taking a break and refreshing your mind before continuing is essential. The satisfaction of holding a physical version of your book is one of the most rewarding experiences.
Q. How would you describe your author journey with Packt? Would you recommend Packt to aspiring authors?
Otavio: I had a great experience with Packt, thanks to the support I received throughout the process. While authoring can be challenging, it is also a valuable process that helps solidify our knowledge and simplifies complex concepts. I highly recommend Packt for aspiring authors.
Q. Why should readers choose this book over others already on the market? How would you differentiate your book from its competition?
Otavio: The “Embedded Linux Development Using Yocto Project” book aims to provide readers with a strong foundation of knowledge to tackle the challenges of developing embedded devices. Its comprehensive approach empowers readers with the necessary skills to thrive in this field. Additionally, the book’s final chapter includes a set of guidelines learned during years of consulting and development work for numerous projects and customers in different industries, which will be a valuable resource for readers.
Q. What is/are your specialist tech area(s)?
Otavio: Build systems, Low-level coding, Embedded Systems, Real-time, System programming.
Q. What advice would you give to readers jumping into this technology? Do you have any top tips?
Otavio: If you’re looking to jump into embedded Linux development, my top tip would be to first build a solid knowledge base in Linux. This is because it’s essential to use the Yocto Project tools to tailor the Linux distribution to the specific needs of your project. By doing so, you can create a custom system optimized for performance, reliability, and security. So, take the time to learn the ins and outs of Linux, and you’ll be well on your way to success in embedded Linux development.
Q. Do you belong to any tech community groups?
Otavio: I follow Linux, U-Boot, NixOS, OpenEmbedded, Yocto Project to mention a few.
Q. What’s your take on the technologies discussed in the book? Where do you see these technologies heading in the future?
Otavio: The Yocto Project empowers developers to create tailor-made Linux-based systems for various applications. With its versatility and adaptability, this technology is embraced by industries from robotics to embedded devices. The Yocto Project provides the essential customized solution for those striving towards success, whether it be in the robotics field or the creation of new embedded devices.
Q. How did you organize, plan, and prioritize your work and write the book?
Otavio: It was sometimes difficult to organize, plan, and prioritize my work while writing the book. However, the key to success was to work consistently 3 to 4 days a week with Daiane, who helped author the book content.
Q. What are your favorite tech journals? How do you keep yourself up to date on tech?
Otavio: My favorite tech journal is Linux Weekly News.
Q. Would you like to share your social handles? If so, mention them below.
Otavio: I use Twitter (https://twitter.com/otaviosalvador) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/otavio/).
Q: What is that one writing tip that you found most crucial and would like to share with aspiring authors?
Otavio: Try to make steady progress in the book. I recommend to work 3 to 4 days a week consistently.
You can find Otavio’s book on Amazon by following this link: Please click here
