Orin Nano 8GB Module Compatibility Issues with Different Carrier Boards

Issue Overview

Users are experiencing compatibility issues when attempting to use the Orin Nano 8GB module with different carrier boards. Specifically:

• The Orin Nano 8GB module does not boot when connected to the Jetson Orin NX Developer Kit carrier board.
• A custom-designed carrier board based on the P3768 board works with the developer kit module but fails to boot with the Orin Nano 8GB module.
• The Seeed Studio J202 carrier board can boot with the Orin Nano 8GB module.
• Swapping modules between different carrier boards results in boot failures.
• When connecting the Orin Nano module to the developer kit previously used with the Seeed Studio board, there is no current consumption observed.

These issues are preventing users from successfully utilizing the Orin Nano 8GB module across different carrier board configurations, impacting system functionality and development efforts.

Possible Causes

1. Device Tree Incompatibility: Different carrier boards use distinct device trees that are not compatible with each other. This mismatch can prevent proper booting and hardware initialization.

2. Flashing Configuration: The modules may require specific flashing configurations for each carrier board they are used with. Using a module on a different board without re-flashing could lead to boot failures.

3. Hardware Differences: There might be subtle hardware differences between the developer kit module and the Orin Nano 8GB module that affect compatibility with certain carrier boards.

4. Power Delivery Issues: The lack of current consumption when connecting the Orin Nano module to certain boards could indicate a power delivery problem or incompatibility.

5. BIOS/Firmware Mismatch: The BIOS or firmware on the modules might be tailored for specific carrier boards, causing issues when used with others.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Re-flash the Module:

   • Always re-flash the module when switching between different carrier boards.
   • Use the appropriate flashing configuration for the specific carrier board you are using.
   • For the Seeed Studio board, use their provided flashing instructions and software.

2. Verify Device Tree Compatibility:

   • Ensure you are using the correct device tree for your carrier board and module combination.
   • For the P3768 (DevKit) board, use its specific device tree.
   • For the J202 board, use the Seeed Studio provided device tree.

3. Check Power Connections:

   • Verify that all power connections between the module and carrier board are secure and correct.
   • Measure voltages on power rails to ensure proper power delivery.

4. Update BIOS/Firmware:

   • Check for any available BIOS or firmware updates for your Orin Nano module.
   • Apply updates if available, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Isolate Hardware Issues:

   • Test the Orin Nano 8GB module on a known working carrier board (e.g., Seeed Studio J202) to verify module functionality.
   • Test a known working module (e.g., developer kit module) on your custom carrier board to isolate board-specific issues.

6. Review Custom Carrier Board Design:

   • If using a custom-designed carrier board, carefully review the design against NVIDIA’s reference designs.
   • Pay special attention to power delivery circuits, signal routing, and connector pinouts.

7. Use NVIDIA SDK Manager:

   • When flashing, use the NVIDIA SDK Manager to ensure proper configuration for your specific hardware combination.
   • Follow the flashing process carefully, ensuring all steps complete successfully.

8. Check Compatibility Documentation:

   • Review NVIDIA’s compatibility documentation to ensure your chosen module and carrier board combination is supported.
   • Look for any known issues or limitations with specific hardware combinations.

9. Seek Support for Unresolved Issues:

   • If problems persist after trying these steps, contact NVIDIA support or the carrier board manufacturer for further assistance.
   • Provide detailed information about your setup, including exact model numbers, software versions, and the steps you’ve already taken to troubleshoot.

Remember, when working with different modules and carrier boards, always treat them as distinct configurations requiring specific flashing and setup procedures. Avoid assuming interchangeability without proper reconfiguration.