How to Interface HD-SDI Video with Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

Users are encountering challenges when attempting to interface HD-SDI video signals from a camera with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev board. The main symptoms include confusion over the compatibility of HD-SDI with the Jetson’s CSI (Camera Serial Interface) and uncertainty regarding the necessary hardware components for successful integration.

The issue arises specifically during the design phase of a carrier board intended for use with the Jetson Orin Nano. Users are looking for guidance on whether they can directly connect HD-SDI video sources through the existing CSI interface on the Jetson Orin Nano.

The discussion indicates that users have attempted to find solutions through previous documentation related to interfacing HD-SDI or HDMI video capture with older models, such as the Jetson TX2, but found this information insufficient for their current needs.

The problem seems consistent across different users, resulting in a significant impact on their project timelines and functionality of the intended video processing applications.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Incompatibilities: The Jetson Orin Nano’s CSI interface may not support HD-SDI signals directly, necessitating additional hardware for conversion.

• Need for an HDMI to CSI Bridge: As indicated in user replies, an HDMI to CSI bridge (e.g., TC358840) is required to convert HD-SDI signals into a format compatible with the Jetson’s CSI interface.

• Misunderstanding of Interface Specifications: Users may not fully understand the differences between HD-SDI, HDMI, and CSI interfaces, leading to incorrect assumptions about compatibility.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Confirm Compatibility:

   • Verify that your camera outputs HD-SDI signals.
   • Review the specifications of the Jetson Orin Nano to confirm its supported input formats.

2. Use an HDMI to CSI Bridge:

   • Purchase and integrate an HDMI to CSI bridge like the TC358840.
   • Follow the manufacturer’s documentation for wiring and configuration.

3. Testing Setup:

   • Set up a test environment using a known working HD-SDI camera and the chosen HDMI to CSI bridge.
   • Connect the bridge to the Jetson Orin Nano’s CSI port.

4. Gather System Information:

   • Use terminal commands to check if the device recognizes the connected camera:

     v4l2-ctl --list-devices
     

   • Ensure that necessary drivers are installed for both the Jetson and the bridge.

5. Isolate Issues:

   • Test different configurations by using other video sources (like HDMI) to ensure that the issue is specific to HD-SDI.
   • If possible, try using another HDMI to CSI bridge model to rule out hardware defects.

6. Firmware and Driver Updates:

   • Check for any firmware updates for both the Jetson Orin Nano and the HDMI to CSI bridge.
   • Install any available updates that might improve compatibility or performance.

7. Documentation Review:

   • Refer to Nvidia’s official documentation on interfacing video sources with Jetson devices for additional insights and best practices.

8. Best Practices:

   • Always ensure that all components are powered appropriately and connections are secure.
   • Keep abreast of community forums for updates on compatibility issues or new solutions as they arise.

9. Unresolved Aspects:

   • Further investigation may be needed regarding alternative bridging solutions or updates from Nvidia regarding direct support for HD-SDI inputs in future releases or firmware updates.

By following these steps, users should be able to effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues related to interfacing HD-SDI video with their Jetson Orin Nano Dev board.