HTC Vive Tutorial

Please make sure to review the Disclaimer, Requirements, and Health & Safety sections on VR Stations page before proceeding!

Before Logging in:

• Each VR headset brand works with specific VR Ready Alienware Workstation located in room E620 of the Marcus Gladys Library in the Goodman center.
• If you are unsure of which workstation to use, please ask a Student Lab Monitor.
• The workstation is only for using VR
• Please do not use it for any other software on VR stations. There is no Adobe, Autodesk, Microsoft Office software or Printing software on
  these workstations.
• Please do not have more than one person in the play area at a time while using VR.
• Please clear all belongings and keep the play are clean of any trip hazards before using VR.

To get started use the credentials within the guide booklet to Login at the Windows login screen.

Once logged in you’ll note several icons on the desktop. We’ll be working with software here mainly to access VR features and Apps.

Running VR Software

1. Launch the STEAMVR app on the desktop

2. Login to steam using the credentials in the handbook

• Once logged into SteamVR you’ll see a small window at the bottom center of the screen 

• Turn on the controllers, and plug in the headset, the 5 Icons should lit up green which means that everything is synced up properly (like in the image above).
  • If equipment is not syncing ask the Student Lab Monitor for help

3. Open the VIVEPORT app on the desktop to access the software library

4. Login with the credentials provided in the booklet

5.Once logged into VIVEPORT you’ll see a window with a library link at the top.

6. In the VIVEPORT library you can open any app listed by double clicking the icon

7. We recommend starting with the STEAMVR TUTORIAL app to help develop a feel for VR space

8. If you need help putting on the headset and controllers or have any questions ask the Student Lab Monitor for assistance

The Heads et

*TIP: Once logged in you’ll note several icons on the desktop. There is a short video of how to wear the HTC VIVE Pro headset on the desktop; Please watch it

The front face of the HTC Vive Pro contains several sensors to allow it to be tracked in 3D space. It also has a camera which can be used to check what is in front of you in the real world.

On the right side of the face is a power button and LED. This LED is red when the headset is not connected to SteamVR. It is blue when it is connecting. When it is green it is connected and ready to go.

On the left side of the face is a knob that can be turned to change the distance between the lenses. This usually does not need to be changed but if you know your Interpupillary Distance (IPD) or want to experiment, the lenses can be adjusted for a slightly better experience.

The straps on the headset are adjustable. The headset should be a bit tight around your head but should not cause discomfort. The farther the back strap is down the back of your head, the lighter the headset will feel. Try to make sure the headset does not slide down your face as the lenses are meant to be directly in front of your eyes. There may be a slight light leak around your nose—this is OK and not too noticeable when in use.

The sensors on the headset are sensitive. Do not cover or scratch the sensor lenses, including the proximity sensor.

Headset Front: 

 

Key: Headset Front

1 - Back  Headset Strap, 2 -  Tracking Sensor, 3 -  Camera Lens, 4 -  Earphone, 5 -  Headset button, 6 -  Status Light, 7 -  Lens Distance button

Headset Top:

Key: Headset Top

 

1 - Headset cable clip, 2 - Headset cable, 3 - Volume button, 4 - Adjustment dial, 5 - Head pad, 6 - Mic mute button

Bottom and Inner

Connecting the headset to the LinkBox

Attached to the side of the VR workstation is a Linkbox. Gently connect the main cable front the back of the headset into the Headset cable port. It only fits in one direction. Do not force it. After connecting press the blue button on the linkbox and the LED light on the side of the linkbox will turn blue.

 

Putting on the Headset

1. Loosen the strap by rotating the adjustment dial counter-clockwise, and then detach the Velcro fastener on the top band.

2. Press the headset towards your eyes, and then slide the strap around the back of your head.

3. Rotate the adjustment dial clockwise until the headset fits snugly, and then reattach the Velcro fastener on the top band.

4. Adjust the earphones to a comfortable position over your ear, and then press the earphones towards your ears until they're properly in place.

5. Make sure that the headset cable passes through the cable clip at the back of the headset, and is positioned straight down your back.

*Note: When taking the headset off, remember to loosen the strap first by rotating the adjustment dial counter-clockwise.

Cleaning the Headset

Dampen the cleaning cloth provided in the bag with water to wipe the headset and sensor lenses clean. Using any other liquid may cause damage. 

Caring for the headset lenses 

1. Use the cleaning cloth provided in the box to wipe the lenses.

2. Moisten the cleaning cloth with alcohol or lens cleaner.

3. Wipe in a circular motion from the center to the outer edges of the lenses.

While cleaning the lenses, do not scratch the lenses nor disassemble other parts of the headset.

When not using your headset, store it with the lenses pointed away from any source of direct sunlight. Failure to do so may cause damage to the headset display. 

Can I wear my prescription glasses while using VIVE Pro?

Most glasses fit inside the headset. If you wear large prescription glasses, adjust the lens distance to increase the space in the headset.

• Make sure that no part of your glasses scratch the headset lenses.
• Do not attempt to adjust the visor without pressing the lens distance button.

Press and hold the lens distance button on the headset, and then pull or push the visor to adjust the lens farther or closer to your face. 

Using the IPD knob on the headset

Interpupillary distance (IPD) is the distance between the center of the pupils in your eyes. A quick way to get an estimate is by facing a mirror and holding a millimeter ruler against your brow. Use this measurement as a guide to adjust the distance between the lenses of the headset so that you'll have a better viewing experience.

To change the distance between the lenses, rotate the IPD knob.

As you adjust the IPD, you'll see information displayed in the headset that indicates the current distance between the centers of the lenses.

 

The Controllers

Like the headset, the top of the controller is covered in sensors for tracking purposes.

Each controller has an LED on the front that lights up when it is turned on. A green light means the controller is connected and working. A blue light means the controller is connecting. A red light means the controller needs to be charged. While charging, the light will be orange.

The controllers have micro USB ports on the bottom. These can be connected to a computer or wall adapters for charging.

The lower button on the front of the controllers is used to turn them on and off by holding the button down till you hear a beep. Exiting the SteamVR app automatically turns off the controllers.

The buttons may have varying uses amongst VR software, but their functions will usually be explained.

Please use the lanyards attached to the controllers.

The controllers are generally interchangeable, meaning they are not denoted as for the left or right hand. Once a game or experience starts, the controllers may be assigned to left and right. This will usually be specified in the game.

Setup Calibration

Setting or resetting the activity area.

1. On your computer, open the SteamVR app.

2. Click the drop-down arrow, and then Run Room Setup.

3. Follow the SteamVR app prompts to complete the process.

Returning the VR Equipment

Remove the Headset (be careful of tangled cords) and shut down the STEAMVR APP.

This should automatically shutdown the controllers, however if it doesn’t:

Hold down the power buttons till you hear a beep and the LED light turns off. 

Pack the following into the VR BAG:
1. Headset
2. 2 Controllers

Lens cloth wipe Please return the VR Bag to Access Services on the Library 5th Floor. 

Please leave the physical manual by the VR Workstation.

You can send any feedback or comments/questions to [email protected]. Thank you!