How to Mount the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Board

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties in mounting the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit due to the absence of visible mounting holes on the device. The issue arises primarily during setup when users need to securely attach the entire dev kit, including its base and fan, for various applications.

Specific symptoms reported include:

• Inability to find mounting points on the dev kit.
• Requests for alternative mounting solutions beyond using tape.
• Mention of the plastic base having screws that could potentially be used for mounting.

The frequency of these inquiries suggests that this is a common concern among users. The impact on user experience is significant, as improper mounting can lead to overheating or instability during operation, ultimately affecting system functionality.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes for the mounting issue have been identified:

• Hardware Design: The Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit may not have dedicated mounting holes designed into its structure, complicating installation.

• User Misunderstanding: Users may not be aware of existing features, such as screws on the plastic base that could facilitate mounting.

• Lack of Documentation: Insufficient guidance in official documentation regarding mounting options may lead users to seek alternative solutions.

• Environmental Factors: Inadequate cooling due to improper mounting could lead to overheating, which is critical for performance.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

To address the mounting issue effectively, users can follow these troubleshooting steps and solutions:

1. Inspect the Plastic Base:

   • Check if there are screws on the plastic base of the dev kit. Unscrewing this base may allow for the use of standoff hardware for better mounting options.

2. Consider 3D Printed Mounts:

   • Utilize custom 3D printed brackets designed specifically for the Jetson Orin Nano. For example, a mount bracket designed by Chitoku Yato is available, which captures the edges of the dev kit and provides additional mounting points.
   • Access the STL file for this bracket from iRobot’s documentation here.

3. Explore Alternative Mounting Solutions:

   • If screws are not an option or if further stability is required, consider using standoff hardware or other creative methods to secure the dev kit without compromising airflow.

4. Review Official Documentation:

   • Refer to the "Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit Getting Started" guide available on NVIDIA’s developer site for any overlooked instructions regarding mounting.

5. Community Engagement:

   • Engage with forums or community discussions for shared experiences and solutions from other users who have successfully mounted their devices.

6. Testing Different Configurations:

   • If possible, test different hardware configurations or setups to determine if certain arrangements mitigate stability issues related to improper mounting.

7. Preventive Measures:

   • Ensure that any future installations consider airflow and heat dissipation to prevent overheating issues related to improper device placement.

By following these steps and utilizing available resources, users can effectively address and resolve their mounting concerns with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Board.