NVIDIA Jetson Orin - Development in the Board
Once JetPack is installed and the Jetson Orin has been successfully flashed, you are ready to begin development directly on the board. The Jetson Orin is not just a processor module but a complete Ubuntu-based computer. It provides several methods of access, allowing you to interact with it in the way that best matches your project needs. Developers can connect through a low-level serial console for early debugging, access the system remotely using SSH for headless operation, or work through the full graphical Ubuntu desktop environment. Each approach has its advantages, and understanding them will help streamline your workflow.
Developing on the board typically begins with setting up a reliable method of connection. A serial console is often the first tool used when bringing up a new device because it gives direct visibility into the boot process, kernel messages, and low-level diagnostics. This is especially useful when debugging flashing issues or validating kernel modifications. SSH access, on the other hand, is the preferred option for day-to-day development, since it allows you to log in over a network or USB connection and run commands as if you were physically at the device. For projects involving multimedia, graphics, or GUI applications, using the Ubuntu desktop interface is often the most convenient choice, offering the same environment developers are used to on a PC but running directly on the embedded platform.
Beyond connecting to the board, you will also need to install additional software. The Jetson Orin supports standard Ubuntu package management with apt, which makes it straightforward to add libraries, developer tools, or frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and OpenCV. You can also integrate third-party SDKs, proprietary drivers, or RidgeRun extensions to expand the board’s capabilities. This flexibility ensures you can tailor the development environment to AI, computer vision, robotics, or other embedded applications.
This section provides practical guidance on these workflows:
By combining these approaches, you can create a smooth development process, quickly adapt the environment to your needs, and fully leverage the capabilities of the Jetson Orin platform.