How to Use Partner-Supported Cameras with Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties using partner-supported cameras with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit running JetPack 5.1.1 (Linux Kernel 35.3.1). Specifically:

• Many partner-supported cameras are not showing compatibility with the current kernel version.
• Users are unsure how to run cameras like the Arducam IMX519 16 megapixel autofocus camera with the Orin Nano Developer Kit.
• There’s confusion about which cameras are currently compatible with the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit.
• Users are seeking information on when partner-supported cameras will support JetPack 5.1.1 for the Orin Nano Developer Kit.

Possible Causes

1. Driver incompatibility: The device drivers for partner-supported cameras may not be updated or ported to work with the latest JetPack release and kernel version.
2. Lack of configuration: The CSI connector may not be properly configured to enable support for specific camera modules.
3. Kernel module issues: Required kernel modules for camera support may not be loaded during boot time.
4. Hardware compatibility: Some cameras may not be physically compatible with the Orin Nano Developer Kit.
5. Software support gaps: Certain features (like auto-focus) may not be supported by default in the current software stack.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Use officially supported cameras:

   • The Orin Nano Developer Kit officially supports Rbpcv2-imx219 and Rbpcv3-imx477 cameras by default.

2. Configure CSI connector:

   • Execute Jetson-IO to configure the CSI connector and enable support for specific camera modules:

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

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to enable the desired camera module.

3. Check kernel module loading:

   • Verify if the required camera module (e.g., IMX477) is loaded during boot time:

     lsmod | grep imx477
     

   • If not loaded, you may need to manually load the module or add it to the list of modules to be loaded at boot.

4. For IMX477 camera setup:

   • After configuring with Jetson-IO, connect the camera and run:

     v4l2-ctl --list-devices
     

   • This should now detect the camera without the "cannot open device" error.

5. Porting camera drivers:

   • If your specific camera is not supported, you may need to port the driver to the latest JetPack release.
   • Refer to the Sensor Programming Guide documentation for guidance.
   • Check source code of already supported image sensors (e.g., IMX477) as reference:

     kernel/nvidia/drivers/media/i2c/nv_imx185.c
     kernel/nvidia/drivers/media/i2c/nv_imx477.c
     

6. Auto-focus support:

   • Auto-focus is not supported by default for the IMX477 camera.
   • For cameras with focusers (like some Arducam models), you may need to implement software controls to change the focus position.
   • Check the FocuserPosition API for software control of focus.

7. Third-party support:

   • Consider contacting Jetson Camera Partners for specific details on camera compatibility and support.
   • Some companies, like RidgeRun, offer services to develop or port drivers for new cameras. Contact them at [email protected] for technical questions.

8. Stay updated:

   • Regularly check for updates to JetPack and partner-supported camera drivers.
   • Follow Nvidia’s official channels for announcements on expanded camera support for the Orin Nano Developer Kit.

If you continue to experience issues or need support for a specific camera model, it’s recommended to reach out to Nvidia support or the camera manufacturer for the most up-to-date compatibility information and potential workarounds.