Installing JetPack 5.1.2 on Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit with Ubuntu 22.04 Host

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties installing JetPack 5.1.2 on a Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit using SDK Manager 2.0 with a host computer running Ubuntu 22.04. The main challenge is that the SDK Manager only allows selection of JetPack 6, which installs Ubuntu 22.04 on the Jetson device, while the user’s goal is to run Ubuntu 20.04 on the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit.

Possible Causes

1. SDK Manager Version Mismatch: The SDK Manager 2.0 may not be compatible with older JetPack versions, leading to limited options in the dropdown menu.

2. Host OS Compatibility: The host machine running Ubuntu 22.04 might not be fully compatible with the desired JetPack 5.1.2 installation process.

3. JetPack Version Availability: NVIDIA may have discontinued support for JetPack 5.1.2 in newer SDK Manager versions, forcing users to use more recent JetPack releases.

4. System Detection Issues: The SDK Manager might be incorrectly detecting the host system or Jetson device, resulting in limited installation options.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Modify the OS Release File:
   A workaround suggested by an embedded software engineer involves modifying the /etc/os-release file on the Jetson device to make it appear as Ubuntu 20.04. Follow these steps:

   a. Back up the original file:

   sudo cp /etc/os-release /etc/os-release.back
   

   b. Edit the original file:

   sudo vi /etc/os-release
   

   c. Modify the contents to match Ubuntu 20.04:

   NAME="Ubuntu"
   VERSION="20.04.6 LTS (Focal Fossa)"
   ID=ubuntu
   ID_LIKE=debian
   PRETTY_NAME="Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS"
   VERSION_ID="20.04"
   HOME_URL="https://www.ubuntu.com/"
   SUPPORT_URL="https://help.ubuntu.com/"
   BUG_REPORT_URL="https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/"
   PRIVACY_POLICY_URL="https://www.ubuntu.com/legal/terms-and-policies/privacy-policy"
   VERSION_CODENAME=focal
   UBUNTU_CODENAME=focal
   

   d. Save the file and reboot the Jetson device.

2. Use an Older SDK Manager Version:
   If available, try using an older version of SDK Manager that supports JetPack 5.1.2 installation.

3. Manual Installation:
   Consider manually installing JetPack 5.1.2 components without using SDK Manager. This may involve:

   • Downloading the appropriate BSP (Board Support Package) for Jetson Orin Nano
   • Flashing the device with the correct image
   • Installing additional CUDA libraries and tools manually

4. Check NVIDIA Developer Forums:
   Look for official NVIDIA responses or community solutions regarding JetPack 5.1.2 installation on newer host systems.

5. Use a Virtual Machine:
   Set up a virtual machine running an older Ubuntu version (e.g., 20.04) on your host computer to run SDK Manager 2.0 and install JetPack 5.1.2.

6. Contact NVIDIA Support:
   If all else fails, reach out to NVIDIA support for official guidance on installing JetPack 5.1.2 on the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit using a Ubuntu 22.04 host.

Note: When working with the Jetson device, remember to follow proper procedures for entering recovery mode and removing jumpers as needed during the flashing process. Consult the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit documentation for specific instructions on these steps.