USB Hub Driver Issues on Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano Custom Carrier Board

Issue Overview

Users of a custom carrier board for the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano are experiencing problems with USB hub functionality. Specifically, the board utilizes two USB hub chips: GL3523 (USB 3.0) and GL850 (USB 2.0). The GL3523 chip is not functioning correctly, while the GL850 chip is operating normally. This issue impacts the USB 3.0 capabilities of the custom carrier board, potentially limiting high-speed data transfer and connectivity options for users.

Possible Causes

1. Driver Compatibility: The default BSP (Board Support Package) for the Jetson Orin Nano may not include proper drivers or support for the GL3523 USB 3.0 hub chip.

2. Hardware Defect: There could be a manufacturing defect or damage to the GL3523 chip on the custom carrier board.

3. Power Supply Issues: Insufficient power delivery to the USB hub chips might cause the GL3523 to malfunction while the lower-power GL850 continues to work.

4. Firmware Mismatch: The GL3523 chip may require specific firmware that is not included or properly configured in the current setup.

5. Signal Integrity Problems: There could be issues with the PCB design or signal routing that affect the GL3523 chip’s performance.

6. Configuration Errors: Improper configuration of the USB controller or related systems in the Jetson Orin Nano could lead to the GL3523 not functioning correctly.

Troubleshooting Steps, Solutions & Fixes

1. Verify Driver Support:

   • Check the Jetson Orin Nano documentation to confirm if the GL3523 and GL850 chips are officially supported.
   • Contact the hub vendor to inquire about the specific driver required for the GL3523 chip.

2. Update BSP and Firmware:

   • Ensure you are using the latest BSP for the Jetson Orin Nano.
   • Check for any available firmware updates for the GL3523 chip from the manufacturer.

3. Examine Power Delivery:

   • Verify that the power supply to the USB hub section of the carrier board meets the required specifications.
   • Use a multimeter to check voltage levels at the GL3523 chip’s power pins.

4. Inspect Hardware:

   • Visually inspect the GL3523 chip and surrounding components for any signs of damage or poor soldering.
   • If possible, try replacing the GL3523 chip to rule out a hardware defect.

5. Review PCB Design:

   • Analyze the PCB layout and routing for the USB hub section.
   • Ensure proper impedance matching and signal integrity for the USB 3.0 lines.

6. Test with Known-Good Hardware:

   • If available, test the Jetson Orin Nano module on a different carrier board to isolate the issue.
   • Try connecting a known-working USB 3.0 device directly to the Jetson Orin Nano, bypassing the hub.

7. Kernel Configuration:

   • Check the kernel configuration for USB support:

     zcat /proc/config.gz | grep CONFIG_USB
     

   • Ensure that USB 3.0 support is enabled in the kernel.

8. Diagnostic Commands:

   • Run the following commands to gather USB information:

     lsusb
     lsusb -t
     dmesg | grep -i usb
     

   • Look for any error messages or indications that the GL3523 chip is detected but not functioning.

9. Custom Driver Compilation:

   • If the default drivers are insufficient, consider compiling a custom driver for the GL3523 chip.
   • Consult the chip manufacturer’s documentation for driver source code and compilation instructions.

10. Consult Nvidia Developer Forums:

    • Post detailed information about your issue, including the custom carrier board schematic and diagnostic output, on the Nvidia Developer Forums for expert assistance.

11. Consider Alternative Hub Chips:

    • If all else fails, investigate the possibility of replacing the GL3523 chip with a more compatible USB 3.0 hub chip that is known to work with the Jetson Orin Nano.

Remember to document all troubleshooting steps and their outcomes. If the issue persists after trying these solutions, it may be necessary to involve the custom carrier board manufacturer or Nvidia support for more specialized assistance.