Asidua

Jonathan

I am currently between my 2nd and 3rd year of University, studying for a master’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast. My degree includes a broad range of topics ranging from Power Engineering to Embedded Software Systems. Since my passion lies in software and communication systems, I was very excited to start work at Asidua, as there is a wide range of opportunities available to me. A placement at Asidua compliments my degree perfectly as I can put a lot of theory, which I have learned through university, into practise here, and have found out along the way that it is really fun!

Work at Asidua
During my time at Asidua, I have got to experiment with new leading-edge technologies from vendors who specialise in network processors. I have been involved in creating a custom Linux image for the development systems. This involved building the Linux kernel from scratch and creating a root environment which the user can interact with. I have also been involved in figuring out how to port a boot loader over to the new development system. This involves working with flash memory locations as well as low level drivers that enable the system to boot up correctly. The work is challenging and interesting, and I feel that my placement at Asidua has really prepared me for a future career in I.T./Telecommunications.

Training at Asidua
The training at Asidua is fantastic. The company has put together a “Training School” which new employees undergo. The school teaches you the basics in programming, as well as more advanced topics. Topics include creating a serial driver for a PowerPC board as well as driving an LCD display with I2C and manipulating device registers. The school is very well written and help is always at hand from experienced members of staff who are always willing to sit down and help you.

Fun at Asidua
Asidua offers a calm, comfortable working environment with many activities on offer for employees. There is a Wii and Xbox 360 for a bit of lunchtime fun and the Sports and Social committee regularly organise staff and family nights out, which are a great way to meet employees who you wouldn’t normally work with.

Final Thought
I can’t think of a company that compliments my degree better than Asidua. Working at Asidua has prepared me for a future career in I.T, as well as helped me put my university theory into practice, which will assist me in my final year project. The range of opportunities available at Asidua is excellent and I feel that I am learning new things every day.  Employees are friendly and if you ever need help with something, there is always an experienced engineer close by.