HTC Vive User Manual
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Summary of Contents for HTC Vive

  • Page 1 User guide...
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Contents System requirements What are the system requirements? How can I check if my PC meets the minimum system requirements for VIVE? Can I still use VIVE if my PC doesn't meet the system requirements? What's inside the box? Headset and link box...
  • Page 3 Setting up a room-scale play area Resetting the play area Verifying your setup After setting up, how do I turn the VIVE system on? What is the recommended space for the play area? Can I include space occupied by furniture for the play area?
  • Page 4 This is a warning. Take note to avoid potential problems or prevent damage to your hardware. Information contained in this guide may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, including the latest version of this guide, go to VIVE Support.
  • Page 5: System Requirements

    System requirements System requirements What are the system requirements? ™ To use VIVE , your computer must meet the following system requirements. To find out if your computer is ready for VR, download and run the Vive Quick Compatibility Check.
  • Page 6: How Can I Check If My Pc Meets The Minimum System Requirements For Vive

    Can I still use VIVE if my PC doesn't meet the system requirements? In order for you to enjoy the VIVE experience, it is recommended that you at least have a PC that meets the minimum system requirements. For details, see What are the system requirements? on page 5.
  • Page 7: Headset And Link Box

    Headset and link box Headset and link box Headset About the VIVE headset The headset is your window to the VR environment. The headset has sensors that are tracked by the base stations. The sensors on the headset are sensitive. Do not cover or scratch the sensor lenses, including the proximity sensor.
  • Page 8 Headset and link box Back Standard strap Audio cable 3-in-1 cable IPD (interpupillary distance) knob Face cushion Lenses Proximity sensor Bottom Microphone Nose rest Lens distance knobs...
  • Page 9 Headset and link box Putting the headset on Before putting the headset on, make sure that you've peeled off the protective film from the lenses. Pull the headset down over your eyes. Slide the standard strap around the back of your head, and adjust them so that the headset fits snugly and comfortably.
  • Page 10 Headset and link box Can I wear my prescription glasses while using VIVE? 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.
  • Page 11 Headset and link box Connecting a USB device to the headset Plug in a USB cable to the headset for using a compatible third-party device with VIVE. VIVE- optimized USB cable is sold separately by HTC. Push open the compartment cover to access the connector slots on the headset.
  • Page 12 Headset and link box Unplugging the 3-in-1 cable and audio cable from the headset Push open the compartment cover to access the connector slots on the headset. Carefully pull the tab until the HDMI cable is unplugged, and then unplug the power cable and USB cable as well as the audio cable.
  • Page 13 Headset and link box Replacing the face cushion You can remove and reattach the face cushion for cleaning. For more information, see Cleaning the face cushion on page 35. To remove the face cushion, peel off starting from both ends of the face cushion until it detaches from the headset.
  • Page 14 Headset and link box Replacing the nose rest To remove the nose rest, peel off the flaps of the nose rest until it detaches from the headset. To replace the nose rest, press its tabs into the corresponding slots on the headset. Make sure that the nose rest is fastened in place and its flaps are behind the face cushion.
  • Page 15 Headset and link box Replacing the headset buckle To detach the buckle, rotate the buckle downward. You'll hear a click when the buckle is § released. § To reattach the buckle, with the standard strap hanging down, align the buckle to the connector and then rotate it upward.
  • Page 16: Link Box

    Headset and link box What does the status light on the headset mean? The status light shows: § Green when the headset is in normal mode § Dim green when the headset is on standby § Red when an error is encountered (with cables, display, or the like) Link box About the link box Use the link box to connect the headset to your computer.
  • Page 17 Headset and link box Insert the USB cable on the USB port on the link box, and then insert the opposite end on your computer's USB port. Connect the 3-in-1 headset (HDMI, USB, and power) cables on the side with matching orange trims on the link box.
  • Page 18 Wait for a few seconds, and then plug the power and USB cables back in. On your computer, you might see a notification that drivers are being installed. Wait for the installation to finish. To verify that VIVE hardware are detected, restart SteamVR on your computer.
  • Page 19: Deluxe Audio Strap

    Deluxe Audio Strap About Vive Deluxe Audio Strap Use Vive Deluxe Audio Strap to enjoy your VIVE VR system with quality sound from integrated earphones. It also offers better fit and more comfort when you’re wearing the headset. Vive Deluxe Audio Strap is bundled with the Vive Business Edition. The accessory may be purchased separately from www.vive.com/product/.
  • Page 20 Detach the standard strap and buckle by rotating the buckle downward. You'll hear a click when the buckle is released. Press the buckles of Vive Deluxe Audio Strap to the connectors on the headset using the palms of your hands until you hear a click to fix them in place.
  • Page 21 Headset and link box Insert the 3-in-1 cable and the strap’s audio cable into the compartment cover’s cable hole (not into the hole on the VIVE logo). Connect the cables to its corresponding slots in the headset’s compartment. To replace the compartment cover, align the ridge on the cover with the tabs on the...
  • Page 22 Headset and link box Fix the 3-in-1 cable in place on the clip on the right side of the strap.
  • Page 23 Headset and link box Attach the sticky back of the velcro cable tie (comes with the box) underneath the cushion (right side). Loop the cable tie around the 3-in-1 cable, and then fasten it in place. Insert the strap’s velcro band to the compartment cover’s band lock, and then secure it in place.
  • Page 24 Headset and link box To remove the Vive Deluxe Audio Strap, pull out each of the strap’s buckles to detach the strap from the headset.
  • Page 25 Headset and link box Wearing the headset with the Vive Deluxe Audio Strap Vive Deluxe Audio Strap is bundled with the Vive Business Edition. The accessory may be purchased separately from www.vive.com/product/. To prevent damaging the strap, never force the adjustment dial as it should rotate easily unless the limit is reached.
  • Page 26 Headset and link box Pull each earphone up or down to adjust its height. Twist the earphones to a comfortable position over your ear, and then press down the earphones until you hear a click to fix them in place. Do not use force when removing the headset to prevent damaging the strap.
  • Page 27 Headset and link box Removing the earphones from the strap You can remove the earphones that came with Vive Deluxe Audio Strap if you want to replace or repair them. Vive Deluxe Audio Strap is bundled with the Vive Business Edition. The accessory may be purchased separately from www.vive.com/product/.
  • Page 28 Headset and link box Remove the middle screw that fastens each earphone. Remember to keep the screws in a safe place. For replacement, you’ll find a packet of extra screws that comes with the box. Screwdriver type: cross- shaped PH00x40 Screw name: Phillips Pan Head Screw Carefully pull out the wires connecting the earphones from the strap.
  • Page 29 Replacing the earphones on the strap Vive Deluxe Audio Strap is bundled with the Vive Business Edition. The accessory may be purchased separately from www.vive.com/product/. Attach the earphones and screw them in place to fasten them on Vive Deluxe Audio Strap. Screwdriver type: cross-...
  • Page 30 Headset and link box Press the plastic holders into their corresponding slots, and then fix the earphone wire in place on both ends of the strap.
  • Page 31 Headset and link box Align and insert the earphone wire along the clips on the base of the strap. Reattach the cushion. Insert the tabs on the cushion into the slots on the base of the strap.
  • Page 32 33. § To remove the cushion, peel off the cushion until it detaches from Vive Deluxe Audio Strap. To replace the cushion, insert the tabs on the cushion into the slots on the base of Vive § Deluxe Audio Strap.
  • Page 33 Headset and link box Cleaning the Vive Deluxe Audio Strap cushion Before cleaning the cushion, remove it first from Vive Deluxe Audio Strap. For details, see Replacing the Vive Deluxe Audio Strap cushion on page 32. When cleaning the cushion, remember to: §...
  • Page 34: Product Care And Repair

    Headset and link box Product care and repair Caring for your VIVE Follow these tips to properly care for your VIVE. § Keep the headset lenses away from sharp objects, including cable tips. This will prevent the headset lenses from being scratched.
  • Page 35 Headset and link box Cleaning the face cushion Before cleaning the face cushion, remove it first from the headset. For details, see Replacing the face cushion on page 13. When cleaning the face cushion, remember to: § Dampen a clean smooth cloth with cold water and gently wipe the area you want to clean.
  • Page 36 Headset and link box How do I prepare the headset if I'm returning it for repair? Before sending in the headset for repair, remove the following accessories and store them for safekeeping: Face cushion Compartment cover Standard strap with buckles 3-in-1 cable Audio cable Follow these steps to properly detach the accessories from the headset:...
  • Page 37 Headset and link box Carefully pull the tab until the HDMI cable is unplugged, and then unplug the power cable and USB cable as well as the audio cable. Remove the face cushion. Peel off starting from both ends of the face cushion until it §...
  • Page 38 Headset and link box After removing the accessories, the headset you'll send for return should look like the following:...
  • Page 39 Headset and link box How do I reassemble the headset after repair? After receiving your repaired headset, properly attach the accessories before using your headset again. § Reconnect the 3-in-1 cable and audio cable, and then replace the compartment cover. To replace the compartment cover, align the ridge on the cover with the tabs on the compartment, and then push the cover until it snaps in place.
  • Page 40: Troubleshooting

    Settings Developer, and then make sure that Direct Mode is enabled. 3. Right-click the icon, and then click Reboot Vive headset. 4. Wait for the reboot process to complete. Check the cable § Make sure that your cable connections are securely attached on both connections ends.
  • Page 41 Headset and link box What can I do when the status light on the headset indicates an error? If you see that the status light is red, try these methods to resolve the issue: § Disconnect and reconnect the headset 3-in-1 cable on the link box. §...
  • Page 42 USB port manufacturer. If updating your USB driver doesn't solve the error, purchase and use another PCI-Express USB card (with Intel chipset). Based on our tests, this USB card work well with VIVE: ®...
  • Page 43 On your computer, right-click the Volume icon on the task tray. Do the HTC-VIVE audio following: device and current § Find the volume slider for HTC-VIVE, and then set it to 50%. program § Click Mixer. Find the current program, and then set the volume to 50%.
  • Page 44 Headset and link box Is there a way to also hear from the computer what's in VR? You can duplicate the audio from VIVE to your computer. You may use another pair of headphones or speakers. From your computer, open the SteamVR app.
  • Page 45: Base Stations

    Base stations Base stations About the VIVE base stations § The base stations beam signals to the headset and controllers. Do not cover the front panel with any material. § When the base stations are turned on, they may affect some nearby infrared sensors, such as those used by an IR TV remote control.
  • Page 46: Installing The Base Stations

    Base stations Installing the base stations Before installing the base stations, decide first whether you want to set up a room-scale or seated/standing-only play area. See Planning your play area on page 60. During unboxing, remove the thin film that covers the front panel of the base stations. Mount the base stations diagonally at opposite corners of your space.
  • Page 47 Base stations Once turned on, do not move or adjust the angles of the base stations as it could disrupt the tracking process. Otherwise, you will need to set up the play area again.
  • Page 48: Tips For Setting Up The Base Stations

    For best results, install the base stations using a mounting kit. If you previously bought first- generation VIVE hardware, the mounting kit is provided as an in-box item. Otherwise, you can separately purchase a similar mounting kit from a third-party supplier.
  • Page 49: Updating Base Station Firmware Via Cable Connection

    Base stations Tighten the wingnut to the base station to secure it in place. To adjust the angle of the base station, loosen the clamping ring while carefully holding the base station to prevent it from falling. Tilt the base station toward the play area. Make sure it has an unobstructed view of the other base station.
  • Page 50: Updating Base Station Firmware Via Bluetooth

    Base stations While pressing the Channel button at the back of the base station, plug in the base station’s power adapter. Once the base station is detected by the SteamVR app, the firmware update will start automatically. Do not unplug the micro-USB cable or power cable any time before the firmware update is complete.
  • Page 51: What Does The Status Light On The Base Stations Mean

    Which VIVE hardware are compatible with my base stations? Use only the same version of base stations together. Different base station versions are not interchangeable. Check the table below to see which VIVE hardware you can use with your base stations:...
  • Page 52: Do I Need To Use The Sync Cable

    Base stations Base station version Compatible VIVE hardware § VIVE headset § VIVE Pro headset § VIVE controllers § VIVE controllers (2018) § VIVE Tracker (2018) § VIVE Pro headset § VIVE controllers (2018) § VIVE Tracker (2018) Do I need to use the sync cable? In general, you don't need to connect your base stations to each other with the sync cable.
  • Page 53: Are The Base Stations Covered By Warranty If Accidentally Damaged

    Stop using the base stations if they are damaged, especially if its front panels are cracked. When VIVE is in use, my TV remote isn't working. What can I do? The base stations may affect some nearby infrared sensors, such as those used by an IR TV remote control.
  • Page 54: Controllers

    Controllers Controllers About the VIVE controllers Use the controllers to interact with objects in the VR world. The controllers have sensors that are tracked by the base stations. The sensors on the controllers are sensitive. Do not cover or scratch the sensor lenses.
  • Page 55: Charging The Controllers

    Controllers Charging the controllers You can check the battery level of the controllers when no apps are running, or when the System Dashboard is up. When the battery is low, the indicator will show a single red dot Charge each controller using the provided power adapters and USB cables. When the controller is plugged in and fully charged, its status light shows green if the controller is on or white if the controller is off.
  • Page 56: Attaching The Lanyards To The Controllers

    Controllers Attaching the lanyards to the controllers Using the lanyards may help prevent the controllers from accidentally being dropped; however, please do not fling or violently throw the controller because the lanyard may break. While holding the controller, insert the lanyard’s thread from the top to the bottom hole. Loop the lanyard through the thread, and then tug the lanyard to fasten it in place.
  • Page 57: What Does The Status Light On The Controllers Mean

    Controllers What does the status light on the controllers mean? The status light shows: § Green when the controller is in normal mode § Blinking red when battery is low § Blinking blue when the controller is pairing with the headset §...
  • Page 58: What Can I Do If The Controller's Trackpad Is Oversensitive

    Controllers What can I do if the controller's trackpad is oversensitive? Check if there's a firmware update available for the controllers. After which, re-calibrate the controller by doing these steps: From your computer, open the SteamVR app. Right-click on the icon, and then click Calibrate controller.
  • Page 59: My Controller Won't Turn On After I Accidentally Unplugged It During Firmware Update. What Should I Do

    Controllers My controller won't turn on after I accidentally unplugged it during firmware update. What should I do? Do the following steps to recover your controller from bootloader mode. Using a micro-USB cable, connect the controller to one of your computer's USB ports. From your computer, open the SteamVR app.
  • Page 60: Play Area

    Play area What is the play area? The play area sets the virtual boundaries of VIVE. Your interaction with VR objects happen within the play area. VIVE is designed for room-scale setup, but you can also use it for standing and seated experiences.
  • Page 61: Choosing The Play Area

    Play area Seated and standing experiences do not have space requirements. Examples of seated/standing setup: Choosing the play area Find a space that you will designate as the play area. For best results, do the following: § Move furniture and other obstacles (like pets) out of the play area. §...
  • Page 62: Setting Up Vive For The First Time

    Once you've completed the room setup, you need to run it again if you moved or adjusted the angles of the base stations or if you transfer your VIVE VR system to a different room. Setting up a standing-only play area Choose this option if you only want to experience VR in a seated or standing position.
  • Page 63: Setting Up A Room-Scale Play Area

    Play area Setting up a room-scale play area Choose to set up a room-scale play area to enjoy moving around and fully engage with the VR experience. From your computer, open the SteamVR app. Click , and then select Run Room Setup Room-scale. Review the prompts and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  • Page 64: Verifying Your Setup

    Play area Verifying your setup Once you've completed the VIVE setup process, you can now put on the headset and hold the controllers to start exploring VR. While you're in the play area, the headset and the controllers should remain at least 0.5 m (1 ft 7 in) and no further than 5 m (16 ft 4 in) away from a base station.
  • Page 65: What Is The Recommended Space For The Play Area

    Check if you're using special characters (such as à or é) in your local Windows user name, which could cause the problem. As a workaround, you can add a new Windows account using basic Latin alphabet for its user name. After logging in with the new user name, reinstall VIVE Setup and complete the process.
  • Page 66: Settings

    Settings Settings VIVEPORT app settings Changing the VIVE system language Once you change the language on the VIVEPORT app, the language used in the VIVE VR system will also be changed. From your computer, open the VIVEPORT app. Click On the Language drop-down list, select the language that you want to use.
  • Page 67: Phone Notifications

    To show a constant visual reference of your floor while in VR, select Floor bounds always Changing the default background display When you turn on the VIVE system, the first you'll see is a default background display. It's the same background that shows when you select Room view in System Dashboard.
  • Page 68 Don't worry about missing important notifications. While you're in any VR app, you'll see a notification when you have an incoming call, message, or upcoming calendar event. To receive notifications while in VR, you need to pair your phone with VIVE first. To find out how, see Pairing your phone with VIVE on page 68.
  • Page 69 Unpairing your phone with VIVE You can only use one phone at a time with your VIVE. Unpair your current phone first if you need to use another phone with VIVE. On your phone, open the VIVE app.
  • Page 70: Steamvr

    While in VR, you may receive phone calls, text messages, and calendar reminders. To do so, you need to install the VIVE app on your phone and complete the pairing process with the VIVE system. You can choose which notifications you want to get on your phone's VIVE app settings.
  • Page 71 Settings How can I capture screenshots in VR? While in VR, press the System button and the trigger at the same time. You'll see a notification when the screenshot is saved. To find the screenshot in your computer, navigate to the following path: \Steam\userdata\[Steam user number]\760\remote\250820\screenshots What can I do if I'm having issues with the SteamVR app? The problem could be due to missing or corrupt files in the SteamVR app.
  • Page 72 Settings Under Select the beta you would like to opt into drop-down list, select beta - SteamVR Beta Update. If you'd like to opt out in the future, select None – Opt out of all beta programs. Close the window, and then wait for SteamVR to finish updating.
  • Page 73: Trademarks And Copyrights

    © 2018 HTC Corporation. All Rights Reserved. VIVE, the VIVE logo, HTC, the HTC logo, and all other HTC product and service names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of HTC Corporation and its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries.
  • Page 74: Index

    - connecting a USB device System Dashboard - product care - putting on - replacing the face cushion - replacing the nose rest Vive Deluxe Audio Strap - unplugging the cables Vive phone app - downloading - pairing - unpairing...

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