Jetson Orin Nano Boot Failure After Software Installation and Reboot

Issue Overview

Users of the Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit are experiencing a critical boot failure after installing software and rebooting the device. The specific symptoms include:

• Inability to connect via SSH
• No response through serial connection
• Failure to detect the board in SDK Manager
• Overheating device with non-functioning fan
• Power LED remains on, but no other signs of operation
• Warning message about a test key being used before screen shutdown
• Persistence of the issue even after attempting to use a new SD card with a fresh image

This problem occurs after installing software (specifically CProfileV) in a virtual environment and disabling the GUI before rebooting. The issue prevents any form of access or interaction with the device, rendering it unusable.

Possible Causes

1. Software conflict: The installation of CProfileV in a virtual environment may have caused conflicts with system files or configurations.

2. Improper shutdown procedure: Disabling the GUI and rebooting might have interrupted critical system processes.

3. Corrupted bootloader: The installation process or reboot may have corrupted the bootloader, preventing proper system initialization.

4. Hardware malfunction: Overheating and fan inactivity suggest potential hardware issues, possibly triggered by the software changes.

5. Incompatible software version: The installed software may not be compatible with the specific Jetson Orin Nano model or its current operating system version.

6. Corrupted system files: Critical system files may have been altered or corrupted during the installation or reboot process.

7. Power management issues: The software changes might have affected power management settings, leading to improper device behavior.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Attempt recovery mode:

   • Power off the device completely
   • Connect pin 9 to pin 10 on the button header
   • Apply power to the device
   • If successful, use SDK Manager to reflash the device

2. Check power supply:

   • Ensure you’re using the correct power supply for the Jetson Orin Nano (typically 9-19V DC)
   • Try a different power supply if available

3. Perform a hard reset:

   • Disconnect all power sources
   • Hold the power button for 30 seconds
   • Reconnect power and attempt to boot

4. Re-flash the system image:

   • Download the latest Jetson Orin Nano system image from NVIDIA’s website
   • Use a tool like Etcher to flash the image to a new SD card
   • Insert the SD card and attempt to boot

5. Check for physical damage:

   • Inspect the board for any signs of physical damage or burnt components
   • Pay special attention to the area around the power management unit

6. Use a serial console for debugging:

   • Connect a USB-to-TTL serial cable to the device’s UART pins
   • Use a terminal emulator (e.g., PuTTY) to view boot messages and identify specific errors

7. Update the QSPI bootloader:

   • If possible, use the SDK Manager to update the QSPI bootloader
   • Command: sudo ./flash.sh --no-systemimg -c bootloader/generic/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml jetson-orin-nano-devkit mmcblk0p1

8. Check for thermal issues:

   • If the device is overheating, ensure proper ventilation
   • Consider using additional cooling methods if necessary

9. Verify software compatibility:

   • Check NVIDIA’s documentation to ensure CProfileV is compatible with your Jetson Orin Nano model and OS version

10. Seek professional assistance:

    • If all else fails, contact NVIDIA support or consider seeking help from a professional repair service

Note: If you’re able to access the device at any point, it’s crucial to back up any important data before attempting major changes or reflashing the system.