How to Set CSI Camera Back to IMX219 on Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users have reported difficulties in configuring the CSI camera back to the IMX219 model after initially setting it to the IMX477 on the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano using JetPack 5.1.1 (R35.3.1). The specific symptoms include the absence of the IMX219 option in the jetson-io.py utility menu, which only displays options for the IMX477 camera. This issue arises after rebooting the system following the initial configuration. Users have noted that the problem is not consistently reproducible across different setups, and it appears to be linked to software installation or configuration errors. The impact on user experience includes an inability to utilize the desired camera functionality, which is crucial for testing and development purposes.

Possible Causes

• Software Bugs or Conflicts: The issue may stem from bugs in the JetPack version or conflicts arising from prior configurations.
• Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings during the initial setup of the jetson-io.py utility could lead to missing options in subsequent configurations.
• Driver Issues: Outdated or improperly installed drivers may prevent proper recognition of the IMX219 camera.
• User Errors: Misconfigurations by users during camera setup can lead to such issues, especially if they are unfamiliar with the process.
• Reinstallation Needs: As indicated by user feedback, reinstalling JetPack resolved similar issues, suggesting that installation integrity plays a critical role.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Reinstall JetPack:

   • To address missing options in jetson-io.py, users should consider reinstalling JetPack 5.1.1.
   • Use Nvidia SDK Manager for a clean installation.

   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install nvidia-jetpack
   

2. Run Diagnostic Commands:

   • Open a terminal and run:

     dmesg --follow
     

   • This command helps monitor system logs for any suspicious failures related to camera detection.

3. Check Camera Connection:

   • Ensure that the IMX219 camera is properly connected via the MIPI CSI connector using a compatible cable (15-pin to 22-pin).
   • Verify that connections are secure and that there are no physical damages.

4. Use jetson-io.py Utility:

   • Launch the utility with:

     sudo /opt/nvidia/jetson-io/jetson-io.py
     

   • Navigate to “Configure Jetson 24pin CSI Connector” and check for available options.

5. Verify Camera Device Recognition:

   • After reconfiguration, check if the camera is recognized:

     v4l2-ctl --list-devices
     

   • Look for entries indicating the presence of IMX219.

6. Test with GStreamer Pipeline:

   • To test video capture functionality, use GStreamer commands:

     gst-launch-1.0 nvarguscamerasrc sensor_id=0 ! 'video/x-raw(memory:NVMM), width=(int)1920, height=(int)1080, format=(string)NV12, framerate=(fraction)30/1' ! nvvidconv ! nveglglessink
     

7. Documentation and Updates:

   • Regularly check for updates on Nvidia’s developer forums and documentation for any patches or additional guidance related to camera setup and compatibility.

8. Best Practices:

   • Always ensure that you are using compatible hardware and software versions.
   • Maintain backups of configurations before making changes.

By following these steps, users should be able to resolve issues related to switching back to the IMX219 camera on their Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano systems effectively.