Jetson Orin Nano Power Supply Issues

Issue Overview

Users have reported significant problems with the power supply for the Jetson Orin Nano Dev Kit, particularly when attempting to power the device using batteries and solar energy setups. The main symptoms include:

• Burning of the module board: Users have experienced damage to the Jetson module when connecting it directly to a 12V battery, which exceeds the acceptable voltage range.
• Power supply failure: When attempting to use a solar charger controller, users noted that the output was turned off before further damage could occur.
• Inconsistent power delivery: There are concerns regarding whether the power supply is delivering the correct voltage and current, leading to potential damage or failure to boot.

The context of these issues typically arises during setup in field deployments where users are relying on alternative power sources. The frequency of these issues appears to be consistent among users attempting similar setups, significantly impacting their ability to utilize the Jetson Orin Nano effectively.

Possible Causes

Several potential causes have been identified for the power supply issues:

• Incorrect voltage input: The Jetson Orin Nano module requires a specific voltage input (typically 5V for the module and up to 19V for the dev kit). Supplying voltages outside this range can lead to damage.
• Power supply defects: Users may be using faulty or incompatible power supplies that do not deliver stable output, leading to shutdowns or damage.
• Configuration errors: Incorrect wiring or connections, especially when using batteries or solar setups, can lead to reversed polarity or short circuits.
• Environmental factors: Variability in temperature or unstable power conditions from solar energy systems may affect performance.
• User errors: Lack of familiarity with electrical requirements may lead users to incorrectly connect components.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

To address these issues, users can follow these comprehensive troubleshooting steps and solutions:

1. Verify Power Supply Specifications:

   • Ensure that the power supply matches the required specifications for the Jetson Orin Nano (5V for the module; up to 19V for the dev kit). Check actual output voltage using a multimeter.

2. Use a Voltage Regulator:

   • If powering from a battery, employ a DC-DC converter that steps down voltage appropriately. For instance, use a Victron converter rated for 7V-40V input and 12V output at 5A.

3. Check Connections:

   • Double-check all wiring to ensure correct polarity and secure connections. Ensure that no wires are crossed or improperly connected.

4. Test with Different Power Sources:

   • Attempt powering the device with a known good power adapter (e.g., one that delivers 19V at 2.37A) instead of batteries or solar setups to isolate the issue.

5. Monitor Voltage During Operation:

   • Use an oscilloscope or multimeter to monitor voltage levels while powering the device. Ensure that voltage does not drop below 4.75V during operation.

6. Inspect for Physical Damage:

   • Examine both the module and carrier board for signs of burnt components or physical damage that might indicate a short circuit.

7. Utilize Recommended Power Supplies:

   • Refer to NVIDIA’s recommended power supplies list for compatible options designed specifically for Jetson devices.

8. Best Practices for Future Use:

   • When deploying in field conditions, use robust power management systems that can handle fluctuations in input voltage and current.
   • Regularly check connections and system health during operation to prevent unexpected failures.

9. Documentation and Support Links:

   • Consult NVIDIA’s official documentation on power supply considerations for further guidance on acceptable configurations and troubleshooting steps.
   • Engage with community forums for shared experiences and solutions from other users facing similar issues.

By following these steps, users can better diagnose their issues with the Jetson Orin Nano’s power supply and implement effective solutions to prevent future problems. Further investigation may be needed if issues persist despite following these guidelines, particularly concerning hardware defects or advanced configuration errors.