Getting Started

What's Pre-Installed

When you order an ARK Jetson PAB Carrier bundle, everything comes pre-flashed:

• Flight Controller: Latest PX4 stable firmware

• Jetson: Latest ARK kernel + ARK-OS (bundle purchases)

• Credentials: Username jetson, password jetson

Important: Custom Kernel Required

The ARK Jetson PAB Carrier requires a custom device tree to enable all hardware features. If you reflash your Jetson, you must use the ARK kernel with the correct device tree.

Device tree files: https://github.com/ARK-Electronics/ark_jetson_kernel/tree/main/device_tree/ark_pab

See the Flashing Guide for complete instructions.

WiFi Setup

MHF4 Antenna Cables (Not Included)

MHF4 to RP-SMA antenna cables are required for WiFi and are not included. You can purchase compatible cables from Amazon:

• Option 1: 2-Pack MHF4 to RP-SMA

• Option 2: 2-Pack MHF4 to RP-SMA (alternate)

First Boot: WiFi Hotspot

On first boot, if no known WiFi network is found, the Jetson will create a hotspot:

• Network: jetson-<serial>

• Password: password

Connect to the hotspot, then open a web browser and go to http://jetson.local to configure your WiFi network.

After clicking Apply, reconnect to your local network and refresh the page.

Connecting to Your Jetson

Option 1: SSH over WiFi

Once connected to the same network as your Jetson:

ssh [email protected]

If mDNS is not working on your network, use the Jetson's IP address directly.

Option 2: Via Micro USB

Micro USB + Flight Controller Conflict

The Micro USB port is muxed with the Flight Controller USB connection. When Micro USB is connected:

• The Flight Controller is disconnected from the Jetson

• MAVLink routing and other FC-dependent services will not work

• You MUST reboot after disconnecting Micro USB to restore FC connectivity

See Micro USB Console for more details.

When connected via Micro USB, the Jetson appears as a USB network device:

• PC IP: 192.168.55.100

• Jetson IP: 192.168.55.1

ssh [email protected]

ARK-UI Web Interface

ARK-UI provides a web interface for managing your Jetson. Access it at http://jetson.local.

From ARK-UI you can:

• Configure WiFi networks

• Manage ARK-OS services

• Update flight controller firmware

• View system logs

Next Steps

• ARK Services - Learn about the pre-installed ARK-OS services

• Autopilot Connections - Connect QGroundControl or MissionPlanner

• Flashing Guide - Update or reflash your Jetson