Flashing Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano for Custom Carrier Board Results in PCIe Initialization Failure

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing issues while attempting to flash the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev board for use with a custom carrier board, specifically with Jetpack version 5.1.3. The symptoms include successful flash logs on the host side but subsequent failures during device initialization, particularly related to PCIe connectivity. Users report the following:

• Symptoms: After executing the flash command, the logs indicate successful writing and flashing; however, the device fails to initialize PCIe controllers, leading to storage initialization failures.
• Context: The problem occurs during the flashing process and subsequent boot-up attempts. Users modified configuration files related to pinmux and voltage settings prior to flashing.
• Hardware/Software Specifications: The issue involves the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano, a custom carrier board, and Jetpack 5.1.3.
• Frequency: This issue appears to be consistent among users attempting similar setups.
• Impact: The failure to initialize PCIe prevents the use of NVMe storage, significantly impacting the functionality of the device.
• Additional Context: Users have reported varying experiences with different configurations and mentioned potential issues with using incorrect flash commands.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes for this issue have been identified:

• Incorrect Flash Command: Using an outdated or incorrect flash command can lead to improper initialization of hardware components.
• Configuration Errors: Modifications in configuration files (e.g., p3768-0000+p3767-0000.conf) may not align with the hardware requirements or Jetpack version.
• Driver Issues: Incompatibilities between drivers and hardware configurations can result in initialization failures.
• Hardware Defects: Possible defects in the custom carrier board or connections could impede proper device initialization.
• Environmental Factors: Power supply issues or thermal conditions might affect hardware performance during initialization.
• User Errors: Misconfigurations or incorrect setup procedures can lead to failure in device recognition and initialization.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

To resolve the issue, users can follow these comprehensive troubleshooting steps:

1. Verify Flash Command:

   • Ensure that you are using the correct flash command for your specific Jetpack version. For example:

     sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device nvme0n1p1 -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_t234_nvme.xml -p "-c bootloader/generic/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml" --showlogs --erase-all --network usb0 p3768-0000+p3767-0000 internal
     

   • Check if you’re using a command from an incompatible release (e.g., rel-36 command on rel-35).

2. Review Configuration Files:

   • Double-check modifications made in p3768-0000+p3767-0000.conf. Ensure that changes align with your hardware specifications and Jetpack version.
   • Consider reverting to default settings if necessary.

3. Check Hardware Connections:

   • Inspect all physical connections on the custom carrier board, ensuring that all components are securely connected and functional.

4. Use SDK Manager for Flashing:

   • If not already done, attempt to use the Nvidia SDK Manager for flashing, as it may provide better error handling and logging capabilities.

5. Gather System Logs:

   • After attempting a flash, export logs from both host and device sides for further analysis:
     • Host logs can be found at Linux_for_Tegra/initrdlog/.
     • Device logs may provide insights into what fails during initialization.

6. Test with Different Configurations:

   • If possible, test with a different carrier board or NVMe drive to isolate whether the issue is related to specific hardware components.

7. Consult Official Documentation:

   • Refer to Nvidia’s official documentation for guidance on flashing procedures and configuration settings specific to your setup:
     Nvidia Developer Documentation

8. Seek Community Support:

   • Engage with community forums or support channels to share experiences and gather additional troubleshooting tips.

9. Consider Firmware Updates:

   • Check for any available firmware updates for both the Jetson Orin Nano and custom carrier board that may resolve compatibility issues.

10. Document Findings:

    • Keep track of all changes made during troubleshooting efforts to identify patterns or effective solutions.

By following these steps, users should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues faced while flashing their Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev board for use with a custom carrier board.