Jetson Orin Nano Boot Issues with SDK Manager

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties booting the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano after attempting to flash the SDK image onto an SD card. The primary symptom reported is that the device fails to boot following the flashing process. Users have noted that they receive an "OOPS! No SDKs are available for your account" message when trying to use the SDK Manager application, which is intended to assist in preparing the device for booting.

The context of the problem arises during the initial setup phase, specifically when users are trying to create a bootable SD card image. The hardware involved is the Jetson Orin Nano, which requires a 64GB microSD card for this process. The issue appears to be consistent across multiple users, indicating a broader problem that affects user experience significantly, as it prevents them from utilizing the device.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Incompatibilities or Defects: Issues with the SD card itself (e.g., compatibility or corruption) may lead to boot failures.

• Software Bugs or Conflicts: Problems within the SDK Manager application could prevent it from recognizing available SDKs, hindering the flashing process.

• Configuration Errors: Incorrect setup steps or parameters during the flashing process may lead to unsuccessful boot attempts.

• Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers could affect communication between the host machine and the Jetson Orin Nano during flashing.

• Environmental Factors: Power supply issues or overheating could also contribute to boot failures.

• User Errors or Misconfigurations: Improper execution of commands or failure to follow instructions accurately may result in unsuccessful setups.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Hardware:

   • Ensure that you are using a compatible 64GB microSD card.
   • Test with a different microSD card if possible.

2. Use Alternative Flashing Methods:

   • You can bypass SDK Manager by downloading the necessary images directly and using a command-line approach:
     • Download the L4T release package and sample filesystem package from Nvidia’s website:
       • L4T Release Package
       • Sample FS Package

3. Follow Command-Line Flashing Instructions:

   • Execute the following commands in your terminal:

     tar xf ${L4T_RELEASE_PACKAGE}
     sudo tar xpf ${SAMPLE_FS_PACKAGE} -C Linux_for_Tegra/rootfs/
     cd Linux_for_Tegra/
     sudo ./apply_binaries.sh
     sudo ./tools/l4t_flash_prerequisites.sh
     sudo ./flash.sh jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
     

   • Note: Some users debated whether l4t_initrd_flash.sh should be used instead of flash.sh. Confirm with documentation for your specific use case.

4. Check Connection Type:

   • Ensure you are using a USB-C connection for flashing, as some users mistakenly referred to microUSB.

5. Review Documentation:

   • Consult Nvidia’s official documentation for any updates or changes in procedures related to flashing and booting the Orin Nano.

6. Best Practices for Future Prevention:

   • Keep your software and drivers updated.
   • Follow official guides closely and double-check each step before proceeding.
   • Regularly check forums and community discussions for updates on common issues and solutions.

7. Unresolved Aspects:

   • Some users still face issues with SDK Manager not recognizing SDKs, which may require further investigation into account settings or software updates from Nvidia.

By following these steps, users should be able to diagnose and resolve boot issues with their Jetson Orin Nano effectively.