HDMI Video Input Connection for Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties connecting a 4K Lumix camera with HDMI output to the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano development board for object detection purposes. The specific problem arises when attempting to use an HDMI to USB adapter, which fails to establish a working connection. This issue impacts the ability to capture and process high-quality video input for machine learning applications, particularly object detection tasks.

Possible Causes

1. Incompatible HDMI to USB Adapter: The HDMI to USB adapter used may not be compatible with the Jetson Orin Nano or may lack the necessary drivers for proper functionality.

2. Missing Driver Support: The Jetson Orin Nano may not have the required drivers to recognize and process input from the HDMI to USB adapter.

3. Unsupported Input Method: The Jetson Orin Nano might not natively support HDMI input through USB adapters, requiring alternative connection methods.

4. Hardware Limitations: The Jetson Orin Nano’s hardware configuration may not be designed to accept HDMI input directly or through USB conversion.

5. Software Configuration Issues: Incorrect software settings or configurations on the Jetson Orin Nano could prevent proper recognition of the HDMI input.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Use CSI Cameras:

   • The Jetson Orin Nano supports CSI (Camera Serial Interface) cameras, such as IMX219 or IMX477 Pi cameras.
   • Consider replacing the Lumix camera with a compatible CSI camera for direct connection.

2. Implement HDMI to CSI Conversion:

   • Explore HDMI to CSI conversion solutions specifically designed for the Jetson Orin Nano.
   • Research and purchase an HDMI to CSI adapter board compatible with the Jetson platform.
   • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting and configuring the HDMI to CSI adapter.

3. Driver Implementation for HDMI to USB:

   • If persisting with the HDMI to USB approach, investigate the possibility of implementing custom drivers.
   • Search for existing open-source projects or community-developed drivers for HDMI to USB adapters on Jetson platforms.
   • Consider reaching out to the Nvidia developer community or forums for guidance on driver implementation.

4. Explore Alternative Video Capture Methods:

   • Research video capture cards or devices specifically compatible with the Jetson Orin Nano.
   • Look for solutions that can convert HDMI signals to a format natively supported by the Jetson platform.

5. Check for Software Updates:

   • Ensure your Jetson Orin Nano is running the latest JetPack SDK version.
   • Update all relevant drivers and software components to their latest versions.

6. Verify Hardware Compatibility:

   • Consult the Jetson Orin Nano documentation to confirm supported video input methods.
   • Check if there are any known limitations or specific requirements for video input on the Orin Nano model.

7. Test with Different Adapters:

   • Try multiple HDMI to USB adapters from different manufacturers to rule out adapter-specific issues.
   • Look for adapters that explicitly mention compatibility with Linux-based systems or embedded platforms.

8. Community Support:

   • Engage with the Nvidia Developer forums or Jetson community to seek advice from experienced users or developers who may have encountered similar issues.
   • Share detailed information about your setup, including the specific HDMI to USB adapter model and any error messages encountered.

Remember that the Jetson Orin Nano’s primary support is for CSI cameras, and alternative input methods may require additional hardware or software solutions. If the HDMI to USB method proves unfeasible, strongly consider transitioning to a CSI-based camera solution for optimal compatibility and performance with your object detection application.