QSPI Bootloader Update Required for Jetson Orin Nano with JetPack 6

Issue Overview

Users attempting to boot the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano for the first time with JetPack 6 are encountering a requirement to update the QSPI bootloaders. This process is necessary when transitioning from JetPack 5 (L4T R35.x) to JetPack 6 (L4T R36.x). The issue arises during the initial setup of the device, specifically when preparing the SD card for first-time use. Users are confused about the correct procedure for updating the QSPI bootloaders, particularly regarding whether the Jetson Orin Nano needs to be connected to a computer during this process.

Possible Causes

1. Firmware Version Mismatch: The pre-installed QSPI bootloader on the Jetson Orin Nano module is not compatible with JetPack 6, necessitating an update.

2. Incomplete Documentation: The official documentation may not clearly explain the distinction between flashing the SD card and updating the QSPI bootloaders, leading to user confusion.

3. Hardware Transition: The transition from JetPack 5 to JetPack 6 requires additional steps that users may not be aware of, particularly if they are new to the Jetson platform.

4. Misunderstanding of Hardware Components: Users may not understand that the QSPI is a separate component from the SD card, leading to confusion about the flashing process.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Understand the QSPI Update Process:

   • Recognize that updating the QSPI bootloaders is separate from flashing the SD card.
   • The QSPI is part of the Jetson Orin Nano module itself and contains BIOS-like software and boot content.

2. Prepare for QSPI Update:

   • Connect the Jetson Orin Nano to the host PC using the correct USB cable.
   • Place the Jetson in recovery mode by shorting specific pins during power-up or power reset.
   • Note: There’s no need to hold these pins for an extended period.

3. Use SDK Manager for QSPI Update:

   • Download and install the NVIDIA SDK Manager on your host PC.
   • Launch SDK Manager and select the Jetson Orin Nano as your target device.
   • Choose JetPack 6 (L4T R36.x) as the version to install.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to flash the QSPI bootloaders.

4. Flash the SD Card:

   • If not already done, flash your SD card with the JetPack 6 image using a tool like Balena Etcher.
   • Insert the flashed SD card into the Jetson Orin Nano.

5. Boot the Jetson Orin Nano:

   • After the QSPI update is complete, the Jetson should self-reboot.
   • If it doesn’t, manually power cycle the device.

6. Verify the Update:

   • Once booted, check the system information to confirm that JetPack 6 is correctly installed.
   • You can use the command: cat /etc/nv_tegra_release

7. Consult Official Documentation:

   • For the most up-to-date and detailed instructions, refer to the latest L4T R36.x documentation available at:
     https://developer.nvidia.com/linux-tegra

8. Troubleshooting Common Issues:

   • If the device is not recognized in recovery mode, try a different USB cable or port.
   • Ensure you have the latest version of SDK Manager installed on your host PC.
   • If you encounter errors during the QSPI update, try repeating the process or check for any error logs in the SDK Manager.

By following these steps, users should be able to successfully update the QSPI bootloaders and boot their Jetson Orin Nano with JetPack 6. Remember that the QSPI update is a one-time process when transitioning to JetPack 6, and subsequent SD card flashes will not require this step.