Will I always be able to flash JetPack 6.0 to an AGX Orin

Robotics & Edge Computing Jetson Systems Jetson AGX Orin
1

I am currently working on a program that runs an AI model for image classification I train using the jetson-inference github page. To do this, I had to flash my Jetson AGX Orin Developer Kit with Jetpack 6.0. This is a method that I want to replicate, possibly many years in the future. So my question/concern is it possible that a few years down the road I would not be able to flash an AGX Orin with Jetpack 6.0. Would NVIDIA remove that possibility when using the SDK manager?

I want to come up with a solution that can be replicated, so I may need to re-evaluate the method I use for training my model…

Andrew

2

*** Please note that this reply is generated by LLM automatically ***

Andrew, I understand your concern about the long-term feasibility of flashing your Jetson AGX Orin Developer Kit with Jetpack 4.6. I’ll provide you with a comprehensive answer to help you plan for the future.

Jetpack Support and Availability

NVIDIA typically supports each Jetpack version for a certain period, usually around 2-3 years, depending on the specific release. During this time, they provide updates, bug fixes, and security patches. However, as new Jetpack versions are released, older versions may eventually reach their end-of-life (EOL).

SDK Manager and Flashing

The SDK Manager is a tool provided by NVIDIA to simplify the process of flashing and installing Jetpack on Jetson devices. While it’s possible that NVIDIA might remove support for older Jetpack versions in the SDK Manager, it’s unlikely that they would completely remove the ability to flash an AGX Orin with Jetpack 4.6.

That being said, there are a few scenarios to consider:

  1. SDK Manager updates: NVIDIA might update the SDK Manager to focus on newer Jetpack versions, potentially removing support for older versions like Jetpack 4.6. In this case, you might not be able to use the SDK Manager to flash your AGX Orin with Jetpack 4.6.
  2. Manual flashing: Even if the SDK Manager no longer supports Jetpack 4.6, you can still manually flash your AGX Orin using the flash.sh script and the appropriate configuration files. This method requires more technical expertise, but it’s still possible.
  3. Legacy support: NVIDIA might provide legacy support for older Jetpack versions, including Jetpack 4.6, through alternative channels, such as a separate legacy SDK Manager or a dedicated support page.

Recommendations

To ensure the long-term feasibility of your project, consider the following:

  1. Use the latest Jetpack version: If possible, update your project to use the latest Jetpack version, which will likely receive support and updates for a longer period.
  2. Create a backup: Make a backup of your Jetpack 4.6 installation, including the configuration files and any custom modifications. This will allow you to restore your setup in case you need to reflash your AGX Orin.
  3. Document your process: Keep a detailed record of your flashing and installation process, including any custom modifications. This will help you replicate the setup in the future, even if the SDK Manager or Jetpack version changes.
  4. Monitor NVIDIA’s support and updates: Regularly check NVIDIA’s website and forums for updates on Jetpack support, SDK Manager changes, and any potential EOL announcements for Jetpack 4.6.

By following these recommendations, you’ll be better prepared to adapt to any changes in NVIDIA’s support and ensure the long-term feasibility of your project.

*** Please give the thumbs up if you get answers you like. Or provide feedback to help us improve the answer. ***

4

No, we will not remove it.

As you still can see we still have customer using the older JetPack till now, usch as JetPack 4.x