How to Flash the Image File into Orin Nano with SDK 35.2.1

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties when attempting to flash an image file onto the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit using SDK version 35.2.1. The primary symptoms include errors during the flashing process and failure to boot from the flashed storage device. This issue often arises during setup, particularly when users are trying to configure external storage devices such as NVMe drives. Notably, it has been reported that Orin Nano does not support SDK 35.2.1, leading to inconsistencies in results when users attempt to use this version. The problem has been noted by multiple users, indicating a frequency of occurrence that affects the overall user experience and functionality of the device.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Incompatibilities: The Orin Nano may not have internal eMMC storage, requiring an external storage device for flashing.
• Software Bugs or Conflicts: SDK version 35.2.1 lacks support for Orin Nano, leading to errors during the flashing process.
• Configuration Errors: Incorrect commands or parameters used during the flashing process can lead to failures.
• Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers may prevent successful communication between the host PC and the Orin Nano.
• Environmental Factors: Power supply issues or overheating could impact performance during the flashing process.
• User Errors: Misconfigurations in command syntax or hardware connections can lead to unsuccessful operations.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Hardware Setup:

   • Ensure that an appropriate external storage device (e.g., NVMe or SD card) is connected to the Orin Nano.
   • Confirm that you are using the correct carrier board model (p3509).

2. Use Correct Flashing Command:

   • For NVMe devices, use:

     sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device nvme0n1p1 -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml -p "-c bootloader/t186ref/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml" --showlogs --network usb0 p3509-a02+p3767-0000 internal
     

   • If using a different external device (like an SSD), modify accordingly as shown in user replies.

3. Check SDK Version Compatibility:

   • Users have reported success with JetPack version 5.1.1 and later (e.g., 35.3.1). It is advisable to upgrade to these versions for better compatibility.

4. Flashing Process for Mass Flashing:

   • To generate an mfi_image for mass flashing, use:

     sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --no-flash --external-device nvme0n1p1 -p "-c bootloader/t186ref/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml --no-systemimg" -c ./tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml --massflash 5 --showlogs --network usb0 p3509-a02+p3767-0000 nvme0n1p1
     

   • Followed by:

     sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --flash-only --massflash 1 --network usb0 --showlogs
     

5. Updating Firmware:

   • Ensure your Jetson Orin Nano has the latest firmware suitable for JetPack 6.x if applicable.

6. Recovery Mode Setup:

   • If facing detection issues, ensure the board is in recovery mode by shorting pins 9 and 10 on the button header before powering on.

7. Logs and Error Reports:

   • Collect logs from failed attempts for further analysis. Use EXPORT LOGS in SDK Manager when errors occur.

8. Documentation and Resources:

   • Refer to the Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit User Guide for comprehensive instructions on setup and troubleshooting.
   • Check NVIDIA forums for community support and similar issues faced by other users.

9. Best Practices:

   • Always ensure power supplies are adequate (19V for Orin Nano).
   • Regularly update software components and drivers.

10. Unresolved Issues:

    • Users still seek clarity on future software releases and their compatibility with existing hardware configurations.

By following these steps and recommendations, users should be able to successfully flash their Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit and troubleshoot any related issues effectively.