Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit Not Detected by Host PC in Normal Mode

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano 8GB (production module) not being detected by the host PC when in normal operating mode. This issue occurs during the SDK installation process using the SDK Manager. While the device is detectable in recovery mode, it becomes undetectable once it boots into normal mode, preventing the installation of SDK components. This problem significantly impacts the setup and configuration process for new Jetson users.

Possible Causes

1. USB Device Mode Configuration: The Jetson may not be properly configured to enter USB device mode after booting into normal operation.

2. Incorrect USB Port Usage: Users might be connecting to the wrong USB port on the Jetson board, which doesn’t support device mode.

3. Incomplete First Boot Setup: If the initial account setup on the Jetson is not completed, it may prevent proper USB device recognition.

4. Host PC Security Settings: Overly strict security settings on the host PC might be blocking the virtual network device created by the Jetson.

5. USB Service Issues: The service responsible for enabling USB device mode on the Jetson may not be starting correctly after boot.

6. Driver or Compatibility Issues: There might be driver conflicts or compatibility issues between the host PC and the Jetson device.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify First Boot Setup:

   • Ensure that the first boot account setup is completed on the Jetson, either locally or via serial console.

2. Use Correct USB Port:

   • Identify the correct USB port on the Jetson Orin Nano that supports device mode (likely a USB-C port).
   • Connect the USB cable to this specific port when attempting to detect the device.

3. Check USB Device Recognition:

   • On the host PC, run the following command to monitor USB connections:

     dmesg --follow
     

   • Connect the Jetson and observe the output for any recognition messages.

4. Alternative Network Connection:

   • If USB detection fails, use an Ethernet connection as an alternative.
   • Connect the Jetson and host PC directly with a crossover Ethernet cable or through the same router.
   • Configure static IP addresses on both devices. For example:
     • Jetson: 10.0.0.1
     • Host PC: 10.0.0.2
   • Verify connectivity by pinging between the devices.

5. SDK Manager with IP Address:

   • In the SDK Manager, use the Jetson’s IP address instead of relying on USB detection.
   • Ensure that SSH is enabled on the Jetson and that the host PC can successfully SSH into the Jetson using the configured IP address.

6. Verify SSH Connectivity:

   • Before proceeding with SDK installation, test SSH connectivity:

     ssh <username>@10.0.0.1
     

   • If SSH fails, troubleshoot network settings and firewall configurations.

7. Update SDK Manager:

   • Ensure you’re using the latest version of SDK Manager to avoid potential compatibility issues.

8. Check Jetson Services:

   • Once booted, verify that the USB device mode service is running on the Jetson:

     sudo systemctl status usb-device-mode.service
     

   • If not active, try starting it:

     sudo systemctl start usb-device-mode.service
     

9. Host PC USB Troubleshooting:

   • On the host PC, check USB controller drivers and consider updating them.
   • Disable and re-enable USB controllers in the host PC’s BIOS/UEFI settings.

10. Jetson Recovery:

    • If all else fails, consider reflashing the Jetson using the recovery mode method, ensuring all steps are followed precisely.

By following these steps, users should be able to either detect the Jetson via USB or successfully install SDK components using an Ethernet connection. If problems persist, it’s recommended to seek further assistance from Nvidia’s official support channels or community forums.