Can’t flash Orin Nano 4GB (might be timeout in USB write)

Issue Overview

Users are encountering difficulties while attempting to flash the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano 4GB on custom carrier boards using JetPack 5.1.1. The primary symptom reported is an error message during the flashing process:

ERROR: might be timeout in USB write.
Error: Return value 3

This issue arises specifically when executing the command:

./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device nvme0n1p1 -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml -p “-c bootloader/t186ref/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml” --showlogs --network usb0 brma3n-11x-orin-nx internal

The problem occurs consistently during the flashing process, despite users successfully flashing the Orin Nano 8GB using the same configuration and hardware setup. Users have reported trying multiple USB cables and disabling USB autosuspend on their flash computers, but these actions have not resolved the issue.

The impact of this problem is significant, as it prevents users from utilizing their Orin Nano 4GB boards effectively, hindering development and deployment of applications.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes for this issue have been identified:

• Hardware Incompatibilities or Defects: The custom carrier board may have compatibility issues with the Orin Nano 4GB or defects that affect the flashing process.

• Software Bugs or Conflicts: There may be bugs in JetPack 5.1.1 or conflicts with other software components that interfere with the flashing procedure.

• Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings in the custom configuration file (brma3n-11x-orin-nx) could lead to failures during the flash process.

• Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible USB drivers on the host computer could result in communication problems during flashing.

• Environmental Factors: Issues such as power supply instability or overheating could contribute to timeouts during USB write operations.

• User Errors or Misconfigurations: Missteps in command execution or environmental setup might lead to errors during the flashing process.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

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

1. Verify Configuration File:

   • Ensure that the custom configuration file (brma3n-11x-orin-nx) is correctly set up. Any errors in this file can lead to flashing failures.
   • Users have reported that issues were resolved by correcting their .config files.

2. Test Different Host PCs:

   • Attempt flashing from a different host PC. Some users found that using Ubuntu 18.04 provided more stable results compared to Ubuntu 20.04.

3. Disable USB Autosuspend:

   • Although some users reported mixed results, disabling USB autosuspend on the flash computer can help mitigate timeouts.
   • This can usually be done by modifying system settings or using terminal commands:

     echo 'on' | sudo tee /sys/module/usbcore/parameters/autosuspend
     

4. Use Different USB Cables and Ports:

   • Try using various USB cables and ports to rule out any cable-related issues.
   • Ensure that high-quality cables are used, as poor-quality cables can lead to communication errors.

5. Check Power Supply:

   • Ensure that the power supply to both the host computer and the Orin Nano board is stable and sufficient.
   • Use a dedicated power source if possible to avoid fluctuations that might cause timeouts.

6. Review Flashing Command:

   • Double-check the command being used for any syntax errors or incorrect parameters.
   • Refer to official Nvidia documentation for guidance on proper usage of l4t_initrd_flash.sh.

7. Gather Logs for Analysis:

   • Collect logs from the flashing process for further analysis. This can provide insights into what might be going wrong.
   • Use the following command to view logs:

     cat flashlog.txt
     

8. Update Drivers and Firmware:

   • Ensure that all relevant drivers (especially USB) are up-to-date on the host computer.
   • Check for any firmware updates for both the Orin Nano and the custom carrier board.

9. Consult Community Forums:

   • Engage with community forums for additional support and shared experiences from other users facing similar issues.

10. Document Unresolved Issues:

    • If problems persist after following these steps, document any specific error messages or behaviors observed for further investigation by Nvidia support or community members.

By following these troubleshooting steps, users may resolve their issues with flashing the Orin Nano 4GB effectively and efficiently.