Connect USB Type C receptacle to Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties in integrating a USB Type C receptacle into their custom board designed for the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano. The main symptoms include confusion regarding the wiring of the CC1 and CC2 pins on the USB Type C connector, which are essential for proper communication and functionality. This issue arises during the hardware development phase, particularly when attempting to set up connections for SSH access and debugging.

Key details include:

• Symptoms: Uncertainty about wiring CC pins and whether to supply 3.3V via the VBUS pin.
• Context: The problem occurs while designing a custom board that incorporates the Jetson Orin Nano, specifically when referencing documentation for schematic design.
• Specifications: Users are utilizing the Jetson Orin Nano and are familiar with connecting Dp and Dn pins, as well as using a multiplexer powered by 3.3V.
• Frequency: This issue appears to be common among developers working on similar projects.
• Impact: Miswiring can lead to communication failures, hindering debugging efforts and overall functionality of the custom board.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes could explain the difficulties users face:

• Hardware Incompatibilities: If the USB Type C connector or multiplexer does not meet required specifications, it may lead to improper connections.

• Documentation Gaps: Insufficient or unclear documentation regarding CC pin wiring can cause confusion.

• Configuration Errors: Incorrectly setting up the USB Type C interface may result in communication issues.

• Driver Issues: If drivers are not correctly installed or configured, they may not recognize the USB connection.

• User Misconfigurations: Users might misunderstand how to properly wire the CC pins or supply power through VBUS.

Understanding these causes can help in diagnosing and resolving the issue effectively.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

To address the issue, follow these comprehensive troubleshooting steps:

1. Review Documentation:

   • Consult Nvidia’s hardware design guide specific to the Jetson Orin Nano for detailed instructions on USB Type C integration.

2. Wiring CC Pins:

   • Connect CC1 and CC2 pins to ground through pull-down resistors (typically 5.1kΩ). This setup allows the device to identify its role (host or peripheral).

3. Power Supply Considerations:

   • While using USB Type C solely for communication, it is advisable to supply 3.3V via VBUS to ensure proper operation of connected devices.

4. Testing Multiplexer Connections:

   • Verify that your multiplexer is compatible with USB Type C specifications. Check vendor documentation for specific wiring instructions.

5. Gather System Information:

   • Use terminal commands to check if the Jetson recognizes connected devices:

     lsusb
     dmesg | grep usb
     

6. Isolate Issues:

   • Test with different USB cables and connectors to rule out hardware defects.
   • If possible, use a known working USB Type C setup to confirm that your board is functioning correctly.

7. Update Drivers/Firmware:

   • Ensure that all relevant drivers and firmware for the Jetson Orin Nano are up-to-date. Check Nvidia’s download center for updates.

8. Consult Community Resources:

   • Engage with forums or communities focused on Nvidia Jetson products for additional insights or shared experiences from other developers.

9. Best Practices for Future Prevention:

   • Always refer to official Nvidia documentation before beginning hardware design.
   • Conduct thorough testing of all connections before finalizing your board design.

By following these steps, users should be able to resolve their issues with integrating a USB Type C receptacle into their custom Jetson Orin Nano boards effectively.