The NVIDIA Jetson Nano is a powerful and compact AI development platform, perfect for running edge AI workloads. While working with the Jetson Nano, there are times when you may need to access its desktop environment remotely—for instance, when your setup doesn't allow direct connection to a monitor or keyboard.
Fortunately, by setting up XRDP on the Jetson Nano and using the Microsoft Remote Desktop application on your MacBook, you can create a seamless remote desktop experience.
This guide walks you through the steps to configure XRDP on your Jetson Nano, connect from your MacBook, and resolve common issues like resolution settings or black screen errors. Whether you're running AI experiments, coding, or managing your Jetson Nano remotely, this setup will save you time and effort.
Step 1: Set Up XRDP on the Jetson Nano
If you've already installed XRDP on your Jetson Nano, confirm it's correctly set up and running.
- Ensure XRDP is Installed: Run the following command on your Jetson Nano to verify XRDP is installed:
sudo apt install xrdp
- Start the XRDP Service: Ensure the XRDP service is running:
sudo systemctl start xrdp
sudo systemctl enable xrdp
- Allow XRDP Through the Firewall: If a firewall is enabled, ensure port 3389 (default XRDP port) is open:
sudo ufw allow 3389
- Confirm XRDP is Running: Check the status of the XRDP service:
sudo systemctl status xrdp
You should see something like:
Active: active (running)
- Check the IP Address of the Jetson Nano: Get the local IP address of your Jetson Nano:
hostname -I
Example output:
Install Microsoft Remote Desktop on Mac
On your MacBook, you need a Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) client to connect to the Jetson Nano. The easiest option is Microsoft Remote Desktop, available for free in the Mac App Store.
Install Microsoft Remote Desktop:
- Open the Mac App Store.
- Search for Microsoft Remote Desktop.
- Install the application.
Accessing the Jetson Nano session remotely
Install an Alternative Desktop Environment
The default desktop environment on Jetson Nano may not work well with XRDP. Install xfce4, which is lightweight and works reliably with XRDP:
sudo apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies
echo xfce4-session >~/.xsession
sudo service xrdp restart
Install LXDE (Alternative Lightweight Option):
If you prefer LXDE:
- Install it:
sudo apt install lxde
- Configure XRDP to use LXDE:
echo startlxde > ~/.xsession
- Restart the XRDP service:
sudo systemctl restart xrdp
Conclusion
To remote desktop into your Jetson Nano from a MacBook:
- Ensure XRDP is installed and running on the Jetson Nano.
- Install Microsoft Remote Desktop on the MacBook. Connect to the Jetson Nano using its IP address (192.168.1.100) in the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
- Troubleshoot common issues like black screens by installing xfce4 or optimizing your setup.
Let me know if you encounter any specific issues or need further assistance! 🚀
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