How Often to Update Ubuntu Packages on Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit

Issue Overview

Users of the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit with JetPack 6.0 Production Release are receiving frequent notifications for software updates, sometimes on a daily basis. This raises concerns about the potential impact of these updates on the JetPack components and libraries, as well as questions about the recommended frequency for performing update, upgrade, and reboot cycles.

Possible Causes

1. Regular Ubuntu package updates: The Ubuntu operating system, which forms the base of the JetPack software, receives frequent updates to improve security, fix bugs, and add new features.

2. JetPack-specific updates: Nvidia may release updates specifically for JetPack components, which could trigger update notifications.

3. Automatic update checks: The system may be configured to check for updates automatically, leading to frequent notifications.

4. Security patches: Critical security updates may be released more frequently, especially for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

5. Application updates: Installed applications may have their own update cycles, contributing to the frequency of update notifications.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Understand update categories:

   • User space updates (most libraries and applications) are generally safe to perform regularly.
   • Kernel or boot-related updates should be approached with caution and may require additional verification.

2. Implement a regular update schedule:

   • For user space updates, consider performing updates daily or weekly, depending on your comfort level and system criticality.
   • For kernel or boot-related updates, it’s recommended to seek advice from the Nvidia forums before proceeding.

3. Monitor for JetPack compatibility:

   • Before applying kernel or boot-related updates, check the Nvidia forums or official documentation for any known compatibility issues with JetPack components.

4. Create system backups:

   • Before applying any updates, especially major ones, create a full system backup to allow for easy recovery if issues arise.

5. Test updates in a non-production environment:

   • If possible, test updates on a separate development kit or in a controlled environment before applying them to critical systems.

6. Customize update settings:

   • Adjust the system’s update settings to check for updates less frequently if daily notifications are disruptive. You can do this through the Software & Updates application or by modifying the /etc/apt/apt.conf.d/10periodic file.

7. Manual update process:

   • For more control, consider disabling automatic update checks and performing manual updates at your preferred intervals using the following commands:

     sudo apt update
     sudo apt upgrade
     

8. Report significant updates:

   • If you encounter kernel or boot chain updates from Ubuntu, consider reporting them in the Nvidia forums to help improve NVIDIA’s packaging.

9. Stay informed:

   • Regularly check the Nvidia Developer forums and official documentation for any announcements or known issues related to updates on the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit.

10. Selective updates:

    • If you’re concerned about specific packages, you can selectively update them instead of performing a full system upgrade. Use the following command:

      sudo apt install --only-upgrade package_name
      

By following these guidelines and best practices, you can maintain a balance between keeping your system up-to-date and ensuring stability for your Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit with JetPack 6.0.