Display Port Power Delivery on Jetson Orin Nano?

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing uncertainty regarding the functionality of the USB-C port on the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit, particularly in relation to its capability for display output and power delivery. The main symptoms include:

• Confusion about USB-C functionality: Users are unsure if a USB-C to Display Port adapter will work for connecting a display while also providing power.
• Context of the issue: This problem arises during setup when attempting to connect a small display that only supports USB-C for both power and video output.
• Hardware specifications: The discussion centers around the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit, which features a USB-C port that is primarily intended for power delivery but does not inherently support video output.
• Frequency of the issue: This seems to be a common question among users setting up their systems, indicating a lack of clear information in the documentation.
• Impact on user experience: The inability to connect displays effectively can hinder development and usability, leading to frustration among users.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes for the observed issues can be identified:

• Hardware incompatibilities: Not all USB-C to Display Port adapters are created equal; some may not support power delivery or video output as expected.

• Software bugs or conflicts: There may be driver issues or firmware limitations that prevent proper communication between the adapter and the Jetson board.

• Configuration errors: Incorrect settings or configurations on either the Jetson device or the display could lead to failure in establishing a connection.

• Driver issues: The necessary drivers for video output over USB-C may not be installed or configured correctly.

• Environmental factors: Power supply issues, such as insufficient wattage from the source, could affect performance.

• User errors or misconfigurations: Users may not be aware of specific requirements or settings needed for successful operation.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

To address the issues related to Display Port power delivery on the Jetson Orin Nano, follow these comprehensive steps:

1. Verify Adapter Compatibility:

   • Ensure that your USB-C to Display Port adapter explicitly states support for both power delivery and video output. Check product specifications before purchase.

2. Check Power Supply:

   • Confirm that your power supply meets the recommended specifications for the Jetson Orin Nano. Insufficient power can lead to malfunctions.

3. Inspect Connections:

   • Ensure all connections are secure. Loose cables can lead to intermittent connectivity issues.

4. Update Drivers and Firmware:

   • Check for any available updates for your Jetson Orin Nano’s drivers and firmware. Use the following command to check for updates:

     sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
     

5. Test with Different Adapters:

   • If possible, test with multiple USB-C to Display Port adapters to determine if the issue is specific to one adapter.

6. Review Configuration Settings:

   • Access system settings related to display configuration. Ensure that any necessary settings for external displays are enabled.

7. Refer to Documentation:

   • Consult Nvidia’s official documentation for any guidelines regarding USB-C functionality and supported adapters. The schematics for reference carrier boards can often be found in the DLC 14 documents mentioned in forum replies.

8. Monitor System Logs:

   • Use terminal commands like dmesg or journalctl to check system logs for any error messages related to USB-C connections or display outputs.

9. Seek Community Support:

   • If issues persist, consider reaching out on forums or community discussions dedicated to Nvidia Jetson products, as other users may have encountered similar problems and found solutions.

10. Best Practices for Future Use:

    • Always verify compatibility before purchasing hardware components.
    • Keep your system updated with the latest drivers and firmware.
    • Document any successful configurations for future reference.

By following these steps, users should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve issues related to Display Port power delivery on their Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit. If problems remain unresolved, further investigation into specific hardware configurations or community support may be necessary.