How to Enable Dual IMX219 Camera Connection on Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties in connecting two IMX219 cameras simultaneously to the Jetson Orin Nano development board, which features two camera interfaces. The primary symptoms include confusion over whether modifications to the device tree file are necessary for enabling this dual connection and challenges in successfully launching both camera feeds during operation. The issue arises during the setup phase when users attempt to configure the cameras for simultaneous use, leading to inconsistent results such as only one camera feed being displayed or black screens when attempting to access the second camera. The hardware specifications include the Jetson Orin Nano board and two IMX219 cameras, with users reporting varying levels of success based on their configurations. This problem significantly impacts user experience, particularly for applications requiring dual camera input, such as robotics and AI-powered imaging systems.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Incompatibilities: The existing setup may not support dual IMX219 connections if the device tree is not properly configured.
• Software Bugs or Conflicts: Issues may arise from software versions that do not fully support dual camera functionality.
• Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings in the device tree or failure to configure the Jetson IO may lead to connectivity issues.
• Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers for the IMX219 cameras could prevent proper functionality.
• Environmental Factors: Power supply inconsistencies or overheating may affect camera performance.
• User Errors or Misconfigurations: Improper setup steps, such as failing to select the correct options in the Jetson IO configuration tool.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Device Tree Configuration:

   • Navigate to the device tree source file located at Linux_for_Tegra/source/public/hardware/nvidia/platform/t23x/p3768/kernel-dts/cvb/tegra234-p3768-0000-a0.dtsi.
   • Ensure that both IMX219 and IMX477 nodes are correctly defined. If modifying for dual IMX219, adjust as follows:

     rbpcv2_imx219_a@10 {
         mode0 {
             tegra_sinterface = "serial_b";
             lane_polarity = "6";
         };
         ...
     };
     rbpcv3_imx219_c@1a {
         mode0 {
             tegra_sinterface = "serial_b";
             lane_polarity = "6";
         };
         ...
     };
     

   • Modify any references to IMX477 in related files as needed.

2. Use Jetson IO Configuration Tool:

   • Run the following command:

     sudo /opt/nvidia/jetson-io/jetson-io.py
     

   • Choose "Configure Jetson 24pin CSI Connector" and select "Camera IMX219 Dual". Save changes and reboot.

3. Testing Camera Outputs:

   • After rebooting, test each camera using:

     gst-launch-1.0 nvarguscamerasrc sensor-id=0 ! "video/x-raw(memory:NVMM), width=(int)1920, height=(int)1080, format=(string)NV12, framerate=(fraction)30/1" ! nvvidconv ! xvimagesink sync=false &
     gst-launch-1.0 nvarguscamerasrc sensor-id=1 ! "video/x-raw(memory:NVMM), width=(int)1920, height=(int)1080, format=(string)NV12, framerate=(fraction)30/1" ! nvvidconv ! xvimagesink sync=false
     

4. Check for Driver Updates:

   • Ensure that you are using the latest drivers compatible with the Jetson Orin Nano and IMX219 cameras.

5. Consult Documentation:

   • Refer to NVIDIA’s official documentation for further guidance on camera configuration and troubleshooting:
     • Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit User Guide
     • NVIDIA Jetson Linux Developer Guide

6. Best Practices for Future Setup:

   • Always ensure your Jetson Orin Nano is updated with the latest firmware and software packages.
   • Follow community forums for updates on common issues and solutions shared by other users.

7. Unresolved Aspects:

   • Users have reported varying results with different setups; further investigation may be needed into specific configurations that consistently yield successful dual camera operation.

By following these steps and utilizing community resources, users can effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues related to connecting dual IMX219 cameras on the Jetson Orin Nano development board.