How to Test RTC on Jetson Orin Nano

Issue Overview

The discussion revolves around testing the Real-Time Clock (RTC) functionality on the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano. Users are experiencing uncertainty regarding whether the RTC can maintain time without a coin battery installed on the carrier board. Specifically, there are queries about the feasibility of using a supercapacitor for this purpose, as it is believed to be unsupported. The issue arises primarily during initial setup and testing phases, where users seek to verify RTC accuracy and functionality. There is no mention of specific software versions or hardware configurations that consistently replicate the problem, but the concern appears to be prevalent among users exploring the RTC capabilities of their devices.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Limitations: The absence of a coin battery may prevent the RTC from maintaining time, as it typically relies on a power source to function correctly.
• Unsupported Components: The suggestion that supercapacitors are not supported indicates potential hardware incompatibility issues.
• Misconfiguration: Users may not have configured their systems properly to utilize the RTC features effectively.
• Lack of Documentation: Insufficient information regarding RTC operation without a battery may lead to confusion and misinterpretation of capabilities.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Hardware Setup:

   • Ensure that the Jetson Orin Nano is correctly powered and all connections are secure.
   • Check if a coin battery is installed; if not, note that RTC functionality may be limited.

2. Testing RTC Accuracy:

   • Follow these steps to test RTC:
     • Use terminal commands to check current time settings.
     • Compare the RTC time with an accurate external clock.
     • Adjust settings as necessary based on discrepancies observed.

3. Check for Updates:

   • Ensure that you are using the latest version of JetPack and relevant drivers. You can check for updates via the Nvidia SDK Manager.

4. Configuration Review:

   • Review your system’s configuration settings related to RTC. Ensure that any necessary parameters are set correctly in your Linux environment.

5. Testing with Different Power Sources:

   • If possible, test the board with an external power supply or different configurations to see if this impacts RTC behavior.

6. Consult Documentation:

   • Refer to Nvidia’s official documentation regarding RTC operation on Jetson devices for any specific instructions or troubleshooting tips.

7. Community Support:

   • Engage with community forums for additional insights or similar experiences shared by other users, which may provide alternative solutions or workarounds.

8. Firmware Upgrades:

   • If issues persist, consider upgrading firmware or drivers related to RTC functionality, as updates may address known bugs.

9. Reaching Out for Technical Support:

   • If all else fails, reach out to Nvidia’s technical support for assistance specific to your device model and configuration.

10. Best Practices:

    • Always ensure proper power management and configuration settings when working with embedded systems like the Jetson Orin Nano to avoid similar issues in future projects.

This document serves as a comprehensive guide for users experiencing difficulties with testing and utilizing the RTC on their Jetson Orin Nano boards, providing structured troubleshooting steps and potential solutions based on community discussions and insights.