Ethernet Compliance Testing for Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users are seeking guidance on conducting Ethernet compliance testing for the Jetson Orin Nano. The main challenge is the lack of readily available documentation for this specific test. This issue affects developers and engineers who need to ensure their Jetson Orin Nano devices meet Ethernet standards and compliance requirements. The problem appears to stem from confusion about which party (NVIDIA or Realtek) should provide the necessary documentation and testing procedures.

Possible Causes

1. Documentation gap: NVIDIA may not have created specific Ethernet compliance testing documentation for the Jetson Orin Nano.

2. Third-party component: The Ethernet functionality is based on a Realtek NIC (Network Interface Card) connected via PCIe, which may complicate the documentation process.

3. Communication breakdown: There seems to be confusion between NVIDIA and Realtek regarding who should provide the compliance testing guide.

4. Limited access to internal registers: The testing process may require access to internal registers of the Realtek RTL8111HNI Gigabit Ethernet PHY, which might not be readily available to end-users.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Identify the correct Ethernet component:

   • Confirm that your Jetson Orin Nano uses the Realtek RTL8111HNI Gigabit Ethernet PHY.

2. Consult the official documentation:

   • Refer to the "Jetson Orin NX Series and Jetson Orin Nano Series Tuning and Compliance Guide Application Note 7" for initial guidance.

3. Contact Realtek directly:

   • Reach out to Realtek’s customer support or FAE (Field Application Engineer) team.
   • Request documentation on how to access the internal registers of the RTL8111HNI Gigabit Ethernet PHY.
   • Explain that you’re using this component in a Jetson Orin Nano and need compliance testing information.

4. Escalate to NVIDIA support:

   • If Realtek is unresponsive or refers you back to NVIDIA, contact NVIDIA’s developer support.
   • Provide details of your communication with Realtek and request assistance in obtaining the necessary documentation.

5. Consider alternative testing methods:

   • Research general Ethernet compliance testing procedures that might be applicable to the Realtek RTL8111HNI.
   • Consult with network testing equipment manufacturers for guidance on testing third-party NICs in embedded systems.

6. Community resources:

   • Check NVIDIA Developer Forums and other community platforms for users who may have successfully performed Ethernet compliance testing on the Jetson Orin Nano.
   • Share your findings and methods to help other developers facing similar issues.

7. Professional testing services:

   • If internal testing proves challenging, consider engaging professional compliance testing services familiar with embedded systems and Ethernet standards.

8. Document your process:

   • As you work through the testing process, document your steps, findings, and any workarounds you discover.
   • This documentation can serve as a valuable resource for other Jetson Orin Nano users in the future.

Note: As of the latest information available in the forum discussion, there is no clear resolution to this issue. Users are advised to persist in their communication with both Realtek and NVIDIA to obtain the necessary guidance for Ethernet compliance testing on the Jetson Orin Nano.