Kernel Customization Issues for Jetson Orin Nano with JetPack 6.0

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing difficulties with kernel customization for the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano development board running JetPack 6.0 with kernel version 5.15. The existing kernel customization documentation appears to be incompatible or incomplete for this specific configuration, leading to numerous issues for developers attempting to modify the kernel. This problem is particularly concerning for users of the Orin Nano platform, as it hinders their ability to tailor the kernel to their specific needs.

Possible Causes

1. Documentation Mismatch: The current kernel customization guide may not be updated to reflect the changes in JetPack 6.0 and kernel 5.15 for the Orin Nano platform.

2. Software Incompatibility: There might be incompatibilities between the new kernel version (5.15) and the existing customization tools or procedures.

3. Platform-Specific Issues: The Orin Nano may have unique hardware characteristics that require special consideration during kernel customization, which are not addressed in the general documentation.

4. JetPack 6.0 Changes: New features or modifications in JetPack 6.0 could be affecting the kernel customization process in ways not accounted for in the current documentation.

5. Incomplete Release: The kernel customization support for JetPack 6.0 on Orin Nano might be incomplete or still in development at the time of the reported issue.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Check Official Documentation:

   • Review the Jetson Linux 36.3 documentation for any updates or specific instructions for Orin Nano with JetPack 6.0.
   • Consult the Kernel documentation in the NVIDIA Jetson Linux Developer Guide for the most up-to-date information.

2. Use Correct JetPack Version:

   • Ensure you are using JetPack 6.0 GA (General Availability) version, as it may contain important updates for kernel customization.

3. Kernel Source Retrieval:

   • Download the correct kernel source for your Jetson Orin Nano and JetPack 6.0 combination.
   • Use the following command to clone the repository:

     git clone https://github.com/NVIDIA/linux-5.15.git
     

4. Build Configuration:

   • Set up the build environment as per the Jetson Linux Developer Guide.
   • Use the appropriate defconfig file for Orin Nano, which might be tegra_defconfig.

5. Kernel Compilation:

   • Compile the kernel using the standard make commands, but be aware that some options might need adjustment for Orin Nano.
   • Example compilation command:

     make ARCH=arm64 CROSS_COMPILE=aarch64-linux-gnu- -j$(nproc)
     

6. Module Compilation:

   • If you’re customizing kernel modules, ensure they are compatible with kernel 5.15.
   • Compile modules separately if needed:

     make ARCH=arm64 CROSS_COMPILE=aarch64-linux-gnu- modules -j$(nproc)
     

7. Installation and Testing:

   • Install the custom kernel and modules carefully, backing up the original files.
   • Test thoroughly in a safe environment before deploying to production.

8. Community Support:

   • Check the NVIDIA Developer Forums for threads related to Orin Nano kernel customization.
   • Consider posting your specific issues if they’re not addressed in existing documentation or forums.

9. Wait for Updates:

   • If the problem persists, it may be necessary to wait for NVIDIA to release updated documentation or tools specifically for Orin Nano with JetPack 6.0 and kernel 5.15.

10. Alternative Approaches:

    • Consider using an older, stable JetPack version if kernel customization is critical and cannot wait for updates.
    • Explore alternative methods of achieving your goals without kernel customization, if possible.

11. Report Issues:

    • If you encounter specific errors or inconsistencies, report them to NVIDIA through their official channels or developer forums.
    • Provide detailed information about your setup, the steps you’ve taken, and the exact errors encountered to help NVIDIA address the issue.