Kernel Build Failure on Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Dev Board

Issue Overview

Users of the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit are encountering issues during the kernel building process. The primary symptoms include build failures after following the prescribed steps to download the kernel source code, modify the device tree, and recompile. The problem arises consistently during the setup phase, specifically when users attempt to build the kernel. Users have reported that they strictly adhered to the documentation but were unable to resolve the issue. The discussion highlights a potential mismatch in toolchain versions, with one user noting that the kernel version (rel-35) is compatible with GCC 9.3, while another user mistakenly used a screenshot showing GCC 11.3 for a different kernel version (rel-36). This discrepancy may lead to compilation errors, impacting user experience by preventing successful kernel builds and limiting functionality.

Possible Causes

1. Toolchain Version Mismatch: Using an incompatible version of GCC for the specific kernel version can lead to build failures. For instance, using GCC 11.3 with rel-35 instead of the required GCC 9.3 could result in compilation errors.

2. Configuration Errors: Incorrectly configured environment variables or device tree modifications can prevent successful compilation.

3. Software Bugs or Conflicts: There may be unresolved bugs in the kernel source code or conflicts with other installed software that affect the build process.

4. Hardware Incompatibilities: If there are any hardware defects or incompatibilities with the development board itself, this could also lead to issues during kernel building.

5. User Errors: Misconfigurations by users, such as incorrect command usage or failure to follow setup instructions precisely, may contribute to the problem.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Toolchain Compatibility:

   • Ensure that you are using the correct version of GCC for your kernel version:
     • For rel-35, use GCC 9.3.
     • Confirm your current GCC version with:

       gcc --version
       

   • If necessary, install the correct version of GCC:

     sudo apt install gcc-9 g++-9
     

2. Check Environment Variables:

   • Review and verify that all required environment variables are correctly set according to the documentation.
   • Use the following command to check environment variables:

     printenv
     

3. Reconfigure Device Tree:

   • Ensure that any modifications made to the device tree are valid and conform to expected formats.
   • Revert any recent changes and attempt a clean build.

4. Rebuild Kernel:

   • Clean previous build artifacts before attempting to rebuild:

     make clean
     

   • Start a fresh build process:

     make
     

5. Consult Documentation:

   • Refer to the official Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit User Guide for detailed instructions on building kernels and troubleshooting common issues.

6. Seek Community Support:

   • If issues persist, consider reaching out on forums or community platforms for assistance from other developers who might have faced similar challenges.

7. Update Software and Firmware:

   • Ensure that your Jetson Orin Nano is running the latest software and firmware versions.
   • Check for updates using SDK Manager and follow instructions for flashing updates if needed.

8. Test Different Configurations:

   • If possible, test with different hardware configurations or revert to a known working state (e.g., using a previous kernel version).

9. Document Error Messages:

   • Keep track of any specific error messages encountered during compilation and search for solutions based on those messages.

10. Best Practices for Future Builds:

    • Always ensure compatibility between toolchains and kernel versions before starting builds.
    • Document any changes made during setup for future reference.

By following these troubleshooting steps, users can effectively diagnose and resolve issues related to kernel building on the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Developer Kit while minimizing future complications.