I finally took the plunge and picked up a PC based VR system. Specifically I got the HP Mixed Reality Headset. I had some fun setting up but overall I'm impressed.
The headset is fairly comfortable, the cable is certainly lighter and less noticeable than on other headsets I've used. It works well in my dark apartment without the need for tracking stations. The range of tracking on the hand controllers is fine, I've not noticed them go out of tracking yet.
The MR home/application launcher is reminiscent of PlayStation Home. You can access the store as well as web browser, skype and video playback from screens that can be deployed around the location. And yes you can stand on the counter tops ( just like PlayStation Home).
So apart from the shenanigans detailed below, I'm impressed so far. Now to make some content! :-)
The headset is fairly comfortable, the cable is certainly lighter and less noticeable than on other headsets I've used. It works well in my dark apartment without the need for tracking stations. The range of tracking on the hand controllers is fine, I've not noticed them go out of tracking yet.
The MR home/application launcher is reminiscent of PlayStation Home. You can access the store as well as web browser, skype and video playback from screens that can be deployed around the location. And yes you can stand on the counter tops ( just like PlayStation Home).
So apart from the shenanigans detailed below, I'm impressed so far. Now to make some content! :-)
Just like Home
More Cables Needed
The headset is supplied with a cable that ends in HDMI and USB 3.0 plugs in a Y configuration. Each branch of the Y is about 8 inches long, the expectation is your PC will have a USB3.0 SS port and an HDMI port close together. This may be true for some laptops but on a desktop, often the fast SS ports are on the front where they can be used to connect to external drives, cameras etc. I needed to use a USB3.0 extension cable to route the cables in a configuration that works. Using a standard USB extension cable or a Targus USB3.0 hub did not work, the headset would try to start and fail repeatedly although tracking was working. You can get the correct cable anywhere, just make sure it's 3.0 I got mine from Amazon Basics for 7 bucks.
If you have a laptop, you may need a Display Port to HDMI adapter as well. There is a list of supported adapters on Microsoft's website.
If you have a laptop, you may need a Display Port to HDMI adapter as well. There is a list of supported adapters on Microsoft's website.
Controller Pairing
There is a plastic tab inside the controller battery compartments that is used to pair the device. This is a bit fragile. I managed to permanently bend one of mine in the down position which meant the button underneath was depressed. After ruining a nice pair of tweezers trying to fix this, I broke the plastic tab off with a screwdriver and then was able to pair the controller.
It is worth noting that the controllers need AA batteries and none are supplied. I'm using rechargeable ones with no problems.
It is worth noting that the controllers need AA batteries and none are supplied. I'm using rechargeable ones with no problems.
WiFi Vs BlueTooth
The last issue I'm having is the Bluetooth controllers swamping my PC's WiFi connection. Apparently this happens on some laptops but also happens on my aging desktop. The solution seems to be a dedicated bluetooth dongle that doesn't share antenna with with the WiFi. Apparently switching to 5Ghz WiFi can also solve the problem but neither of my access points support that. Sheeeshhhh. My short term solution is a wired internet connection, but I guess I'll get a dedicated BT dongle.
Your notebook may share Wifi antenna with Bluetooth when connected to 2.4GHz access point. Check from device manager if you can switch band preference to 5GHz. If 5GHz network is not available and performance is severely impacts consider using Bluetooth dongle.
Your notebook may share Wifi antenna with Bluetooth when connected to 2.4GHz access point. Check from device manager if you can switch band preference to 5GHz. If 5GHz network is not available and performance is severely impacts consider using Bluetooth dongle.
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