Compatibility Issues Between Jetson Orin Nano Module Variants

Issue Overview

Users have reported potential compatibility issues between two variants of the Jetson Orin Nano module, specifically those with part numbers "699-13767-0003-300 M.2" and "699-13767-0003-300 L.3". The main concern is that backups created on one variant may not be compatible with the other, despite the modules appearing to be similar. This issue affects users who are working with multiple Jetson Orin Nano modules and attempting to use backups or system images interchangeably between them.

Possible Causes

1. Firmware Differences: The M.2 and L.3 variants might have slightly different firmware versions or configurations, leading to compatibility issues.

2. Hardware Variations: Although the modules appear similar, there could be minor hardware differences that affect compatibility.

3. QSPI Memory Content: The non-OS portions stored in the QSPI memory on the module itself might differ between the two variants, causing incompatibility when trying to use backups interchangeably.

4. Mismatched OS and Boot Content: The operating system on the SD card may not be compatible with the boot content stored on the module’s QSPI memory.

5. Backup Method Inconsistencies: The method used to create and restore backups might not account for the specific differences between the M.2 and L.3 variants.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Module Compatibility

   • Confirm that both modules are indeed Jetson Orin Nano variants.
   • Check the official Nvidia documentation for any known differences between M.2 and L.3 variants.

2. Update Firmware and Software

   • Ensure both modules are running the latest firmware and software versions.
   • Download and install the latest Jetson SDK (JetPack) for both modules.

3. Isolate OS and Non-OS Components

   • Remember that only the OS is stored on the SD card, while other components are on the module’s QSPI memory.
   • When creating backups, separate the OS backup from the module-specific data.

4. Flash Modules to Identical Content

   • Before concluding that SD cards or backups are incompatible, flash both modules with the same content.
   • Use the following command to flash the modules:

     sudo ./flash.sh jetson-orin-nano-devkit mmcblk0p1
     

5. Create and Restore Full System Images

   • Instead of partial backups, create full system images that include both the SD card content and the QSPI memory data.
   • Use Nvidia’s recommended tools for creating and restoring system images.

6. Check QSPI Memory Content

   • Investigate the content of the QSPI memory on both modules to identify any differences.
   • Use Nvidia’s debugging tools to compare the non-OS portions of both modules.

7. Ensure OS and Boot Content Compatibility

   • When restoring backups or switching SD cards, make sure the OS is compatible with the module’s boot content.
   • If issues persist, try reflashing the entire module, including both OS and non-OS portions.

8. Contact Nvidia Support

   • If the issue remains unresolved, reach out to Nvidia’s technical support for further assistance.
   • Provide detailed information about both modules, including part numbers, firmware versions, and the specific backup methods used.

9. Community Forums

   • Check Nvidia’s developer forums for similar issues reported by other users.
   • Share your findings and solutions to help the community and potentially receive additional insights.

By following these steps and understanding the potential differences between the M.2 and L.3 variants, users should be able to resolve most compatibility issues and successfully work with both types of Jetson Orin Nano modules.