Jetson Orin Nano SDK 6.0 Micro SD Boot Error

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing boot errors with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano when attempting to start the device using a 256 GB micro SD card that has been flashed with SDK 6.0. The symptoms include an inability to boot, accompanied by error messages (not shown here) that indicate issues related to the SD card. This problem arises after users have successfully booted the device using a different SD card (64 GB) flashed with JetPack 5.13 and later with SDK 6.0.

The issue occurs during the boot process after flashing the SD card, which raises concerns about either the SD card’s integrity or compatibility with the Jetson Orin Nano. Users have reported attempts to format and reflash the problematic SD card multiple times without success, leading to speculation about potential defects in the card itself or configuration errors. The problem significantly impacts user experience, as it prevents access to the device required for various applications.

Possible Causes

• Hardware Incompatibilities or Defects: The SD card may be defective or incompatible with the Jetson Orin Nano, which could lead to corruption during flashing or booting.

• Software Bugs or Conflicts: There may be bugs in SDK 6.0 that affect its ability to boot from certain SD cards, particularly larger capacities like 256 GB.

• Configuration Errors: Improper settings during the flashing process might result in an unbootable state.

• Driver Issues: Incompatibilities between the Jetson’s firmware and the drivers associated with SDK 6.0 could cause boot failures.

• Environmental Factors: Issues such as power supply fluctuations or temperature extremes could affect performance and lead to corruption.

• User Errors or Misconfigurations: Users might inadvertently perform steps incorrectly during the flashing process, contributing to the problem.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Check SD Card Integrity:

   • Use a different computer to run a check on the SD card for errors.
   • Command for Linux users:

     sudo fsck /dev/sdX
     

   • Replace /dev/sdX with your actual SD card identifier.

2. Format and Reflash:

   • Format the SD card using a reliable tool (e.g., Balena Etcher or SD Formatter).
   • Follow these steps:
     • Ensure all partitions are deleted.
     • Create a new FAT32 partition.
     • Flash JetPack 5.13 or SDK 6.0 again.

3. Use SDK Manager:

   • If issues persist, utilize Nvidia’s SDK Manager for flashing:
     • Download and install SDK Manager from Nvidia’s official site.
     • Select your Jetson model and follow prompts for flashing firmware.

4. Test with Different Hardware:

   • Try using another micro SD card (preferably one known to work) to rule out issues specific to the original 256 GB card.

5. Monitor Power Supply:

   • Ensure that your power supply meets Nvidia’s specifications for the Jetson Orin Nano, as inadequate power can lead to boot failures.

6. Firmware Updates:

   • Check for any available firmware updates for your Jetson Orin Nano that might resolve compatibility issues with SDK 6.0.

7. Consult Documentation:

   • Review Nvidia’s official documentation regarding supported micro SD cards and recommended flashing procedures.

8. Community Support:

   • Engage with community forums for additional insights or similar experiences that may provide alternative solutions.

Recommended Approach

Multiple users have successfully resolved similar issues by using different micro SD cards and flashing them via SDK Manager, suggesting this as a preferred method if initial troubleshooting fails.

Unresolved Aspects

Further investigation may be needed regarding specific compatibility issues between SDK 6.0 and certain brands or types of micro SD cards, particularly those over 128 GB in size.