Jetson Orin Nano Flashing Failure

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties when attempting to flash their Jetson Orin Nano development boards. The specific symptoms include:

• The module is still recognized with USB ID 7523 after previous flashing attempts
• Flashing process fails consistently
• Using the official carrier board
• Uncertainty about whether the module itself might be damaged

Possible Causes

1. Corrupted firmware: Previous flashing attempts may have left the device in an inconsistent state.
2. Hardware malfunction: The module itself could be faulty, preventing successful flashing.
3. Incompatible flashing tools: The version of SDK Manager or flashing scripts may not be compatible with the device.
4. USB connection issues: Poor quality or faulty USB cables can interfere with the flashing process.
5. Host computer problems: The computer used for flashing might have driver issues or insufficient permissions.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify USB connection:

   • Try using a different, high-quality USB cable
   • Connect the device directly to the host computer, avoiding USB hubs

2. Check recovery mode:

   • Ensure the device is properly set in recovery mode before flashing
   • Follow the official NVIDIA guide for setting recovery mode on Jetson Orin Nano

3. Use command-line flashing:
   Instead of SDK Manager, try using the command-line flashing method:

   sudo ./flash.sh jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
   

   Execute this command from the Linux_for_Tegra directory.

4. Collect and analyze logs:

   • Capture the complete flashing log
   • Look for specific error messages or patterns that might indicate the root cause

5. Check serial console output:

   • Connect a serial console to the Jetson Orin Nano
   • Monitor the output during the boot and flashing process
   • Look for any error messages or unusual behavior that might indicate hardware issues

6. Try alternative flashing methods:
   If the standard method fails, attempt these commands:

   sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device nvme0n1p1 \
   -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml -p "-c bootloader/generic/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml" \
   --showlogs --network usb0 jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
   

   Or for SD card:

   sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device mmcblk0p1 \
   -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml -p "-c bootloader/generic/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml" \
   --showlogs --network usb0 jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
   

7. Flash QSPI bootloader separately:
   If the device fails to boot or enter UEFI menu, try flashing only the bootloader:

   sudo ./flash.sh --no-systemimg -c bootloader/generic/cfg/flash_t234_qspi.xml jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
   

   Then flash the rest of the system:

   sudo ./tools/kernel_flash/l4t_initrd_flash.sh --external-device nvme0n1p1 \
   -c tools/kernel_flash/flash_l4t_external.xml --external-only \
   --showlogs --network usb0 jetson-orin-nano-devkit internal
   

8. Verify host system requirements:

   • Ensure the host computer meets the minimum requirements for flashing Jetson devices
   • Check that all necessary dependencies are installed on the host system

9. Contact NVIDIA Support:
   If all troubleshooting steps fail, it may be necessary to contact NVIDIA support for further assistance or potential RMA if a hardware issue is suspected.

Remember to document all steps taken and collect relevant logs to assist in diagnosing the issue. If the problem persists, consider opening a new support thread with detailed information about the troubleshooting steps attempted and their outcomes.