Orin Nano Power Design Considerations

Issue Overview

Users designing custom boards for the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 8GB module are encountering questions regarding power design specifications. The main concerns revolve around the power-up sequence, timing delays, and power-down circuit requirements. These issues are critical for ensuring proper functionality and preventing potential damage to the Orin Nano module.

Possible Causes

1. Deviation from recommended power-up sequence:
   Failing to follow the specified power-up sequence could lead to improper initialization of the module components.

2. Incorrect timing delays:
   Inadequate or missing delays between power rail activations may cause instability or prevent proper boot-up.

3. Absence of power-down circuit:
   Lack of a proper power-down circuit could result in abrupt shutdowns, potentially causing data loss or hardware damage.

4. Floating SHUTDOWN_REQ pin:
   Leaving the SHUTDOWN_REQ pin (PIN233) floating might lead to unpredictable behavior during power management operations.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Follow the Power-Up Sequence:

   • Adhere strictly to the power-up sequence specified in the Orin Nano Design Guide (DG).
   • Do not float the SHUTDOWN_REQ pin (PIN233). Ensure it is properly connected as per the design guide specifications.

2. Implement Correct Timing Delays:

   • Follow the delay timings provided in the design guide diagram.
   • Do not omit or shorten the specified delays between power rail activations.
   • Proper delays ensure stable power delivery and correct initialization of module components.

3. Include Power-Down Circuit:

   • Implement the power-down circuit as specified in the design guide.
   • This circuit is crucial for controlled shutdown and protection of the module.

4. Hot-Swap Considerations:

   • The design guide does not explicitly mention hot-swap support.
   • It is recommended to design the system assuming hot-swap is not supported to ensure safe operation.

5. Consult Official Documentation:

   • Refer to the latest version of the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano Design Guide for comprehensive and up-to-date information.
   • Follow all guidelines and specifications provided in the official documentation without deviation.

6. Seek Professional Assistance:

   • If uncertainties persist, consider consulting with NVIDIA support or experienced hardware engineers familiar with Jetson module designs.

7. Prototype and Test:

   • Before finalizing the design, create a prototype board and thoroughly test all power sequences and timings.
   • Use appropriate measurement tools to verify power rail behaviors and ensure compliance with the design guide specifications.

Remember, deviating from the official design guidelines may lead to unpredictable behavior, reduced performance, or potential damage to the Orin Nano module. Always prioritize adherence to NVIDIA’s specifications for optimal and safe operation of your custom board design.