RS SOUTH AFRICA SUPPORTS NEXT-GENERATION EDGE AI WITH NVIDIA JETSON ORIN NANO 2

New compact robotics computer opens new possibilities for intelligent machines, robotics and vision AI

RS is supporting the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 robotics computer, a new entry-level edge AI platform designed to deliver next-generation AI performance in a compact, power-efficient format. The platform is expected to become available in the first half of 2027.

The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 delivers twice the inference performance of the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano Super while maintaining the same compact form factor and 40 W power envelope. It also consumes 40% less power at equivalent performance, making it well suited to applications where computing capability, energy efficiency and physical footprint are important considerations.

These capabilities have the potential to support the development of smarter, more autonomous equipment and systems for South African industrial and engineering organisations, particularly where real-time processing and decision-making are required at the edge.

More performance for intelligent machines

The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 features improved Tensor Cores and higher memory bandwidth, delivering 78 TOPS of AI compute, 8 GB of memory and an eight-core Arm CPU. This combination enables a new generation of applications including delivery and inspection drones, robots and vision AI systems, with enhanced AI and video-processing capabilities. The platform is powered by NVIDIA’s open AI software stack, Jetson agent skills and a broad AI ecosystem, helping developers build and deploy AI-enabled applications more quickly.

Supporting South Africa’s AI and automation ambitions

RS’s support for the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 builds on its established relationship with NVIDIA and its role as a strategic global distribution partner. “As South African businesses increasingly explore how AI, robotics and automation can improve the way industrial systems operate, access to capable edge computing platforms will become increasingly important,” comments Erick Wessels, Sales Director, RS South Africa.

The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 brings substantial AI performance into a compact and energy-efficient platform, giving local developers and engineering teams new opportunities to explore intelligent machines, robotics and vision-based applications. “We look forward to supporting customers in South Africa as they investigate the possibilities this technology can unlock,” adds Wessels.

“This exciting product launch is a testament to the strong and successful partnership RS and NVIDIA have built since the introduction of the first Orin Nano™ in 2023,” explains Richard Curtin, SVP, Global AIoT Suppliers and Design Solutions, RS.

“As a strategic global distribution partner, we are well positioned to help customers worldwide access and scale this latest AI innovation, and we encourage them to stay close to RS and RS DesignSpark for further announcements and early ordering opportunities,” says Curtin.

A platform for the next generation of edge AI

The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano 2 represents the next step in making high-performance AI computing accessible in a compact form factor. By combining increased inference performance with improved energy efficiency and an extensive AI software ecosystem, it is designed to help developers accelerate the transition from AI experimentation to practical deployment.

RS will support customers as they explore the opportunities presented by the platform, with further announcements and information on early ordering opportunities to follow ahead of its planned availability in the first half of 2027.