HTC Vive User Manual
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HTC Vive User Manual

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  • Page 1 User guide...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    What should I do if any of the base stations is not detected? Do I need to use the sync cable? Are the base stations covered by warranty if accidentally damaged? When Vive is in use, my TV remote isn't working. What can I do? Controllers About the Vive controllers...
  • Page 3 What types of phone notifications can I receive on Vive? Can I receive notifications from more than one phone on Vive? What features of the Vive phone app are not supported in the iOS version? Play area What is the play area?
  • Page 4 About this guide About this guide In this user guide, we use the following symbols to indicate useful and important information: This is a note. A note often gives additional information, such as what happens when you choose to do or not to do a certain action. A note also provides information that may only be applicable to some situations.

  • Page 5: Unboxing

    ™ cable § USB 3.0 cable § Mounting pad § Power adapters (2) Vive controllers (2) § Lanyards (2 attached) § Micro-USB cables (2) § Power adapters (2) Base stations (2) § Mounting kit (2 mounts, 4 screws, and 4 wall anchors) You can also find documentation in the box, such as the Safety and regulatory guide and warranty card.

  • Page 6: 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 7 Headset and link box Back Headset cable clip Headset cable Volume button Adjustment dial Head pad Mute button Bottom and inner Nose rest Lens distance button Interpupillary distance (IPD) knob Face cushion Proximity sensor Lenses...
  • Page 8 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. Loosen the strap by rotating the dial counter-clockwise, and also detach the Velcro fastener on the top band. Pull the headset down over your eyes, and then slide the strap around the back of your head.
  • Page 9 Headset and link box Rotate the dial clockwise and reattach the Velcro fastener on the top band so that the headset fits snugly and comfortably. Twist the earphones to a comfortable position over your ear, and then press down the earphones to fix them in place.
  • 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 knobs 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. Peel off the face cushion starting from both ends until it detaches from the headset.
  • Page 12 Headset and link box Unplug the headset cable. Insert the USB cable of the device to the USB Type-C slot on the headset, and then loop the USB cable along the ridge. Replug the headset cable to its slot, and then align and push the tabs of the compartment cover onto their corresponding holes.
  • Page 13 Headset and link box Replace the face cushion by inserting its tab into the slot on the headset, and then aligning the hook and loop strips. Connect the other end of the USB cable to the third-party device. Replacing the face cushion If the attached face cushion is too wide for you, replace it with the alternate cushion (narrow) that comes in the box.
  • Page 14 Headset and link box Removing the headset earphones If you need to, you can remove the headset earphones. Peel off the side cushions on the strap near the earphones. Unscrew the screw that's holding the earphone.
  • Page 15 Headset and link box Gently pull off each earphone as it detaches from the strap. Replace the cap by screwing it. After detaching the earphones, make sure to properly store it for safekeeping. Do not squeeze or press down the earphones.
  • Page 16 Headset and link box...
  • Page 17 Headset and link box Replacing the headset earphones You can use your own audio earphones (USB Type-C) with the Vive headset. You need to remove the headset earphones first, otherwise audio will still come out from it. For details, see Removing the headset earphones on page 14.
  • Page 18 Headset and link box Unplug the headset cable. Insert the cable ends of your earphones on the USB Type-C slot, and then loop the cable of your earphones along the ridge.
  • Page 19 Headset and link box Replug the headset cable to its slot, and then align and push the tabs of the compartment cover onto their corresponding holes. Replace the face cushion by inserting its tab into the slot on the headset, and then aligning the hook and loop strips.
  • Page 20 Reattaching the head pad on the headset strap Make sure that the head pad is attached to the headset when using your Vive. Holding the headset upside down, align and insert the tabs on the headset strap into the slots on the head pad to reattach it.
  • Page 21 Headset and link box Updating headset firmware From your computer, open the SteamVR app. If you see the icon, mouse over it to check if the firmware is out of date. If so, click Update headset firmware. The firmware update will start automatically. Do not unplug any cables from the headset, link box, or your computer any time before the firmware update is complete.
  • Page 22 Headset and link box Unplugging the headset cable Peel off the face cushion starting from both ends until it detaches from the headset. Pry open the compartment cover from its flap to access the connector slots on the headset. Unplug the headset cable.

  • Page 23: 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 24 Headset and link box Headset cable port Power button Power port DisplayPort port USB 3.0 port Connecting the headset to your computer Connect the USB 3.0 cable, DisplayPort cable, and power adapter cable on their corresponding slots on the link box. Plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet.

  • Page 25: Troubleshooting

    Wait for the installation to finish. To verify that Vive hardware are detected, restart SteamVR on your computer. Troubleshooting What can I do to troubleshoot the headset? Try these troubleshooting suggestions.
  • Page 26 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 cable on the link box. §...
  • Page 27 2. Open the SteamVR app, and then tap Create system report. 3. Make sure that Vive devices connect via a USB xHCI port rather than to a port from a specific manufacturer, which might have a compatibility issue with Vive.
  • Page 28 On your computer, right-click the Volume icon on the task tray. Do HTC-VIVE audio the 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 29 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 30: 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 31: 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 32: Tips For Setting Up The Base Stations

    Base stations Tips for setting up the base stations You may set up the base stations in a way that's suitable for your place. For best results, you may follow these recommendations: § Mount the base stations diagonally and above head height, ideally more than 2 m (6 ft 6 in).

  • Page 33: 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 34: Updating Base Station Firmware Via Bluetooth

    Settings Enable Bluetooth communication. Select Put Base Station in Standby mode when VR is not in use. If the base stations do not go on standby mode when Vive is not in use, turn the base stations off and then on again.

  • Page 35: What Does The Status Light On The Base Stations Mean

    Base stations What does the status light on the base stations mean? The status light shows: § Green when the base station is in normal mode § Blue when the base station is waiting to stabilize. If it remains in this state, check if it is mounted securely or on a surface that's not prone to vibration.

  • Page 36: 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 37: 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 38: 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 39: 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 40: 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 41: 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 42: 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 43: Viveport

    VR. Accessing Viveport You need to download Vive software from www.vive.com/setup/. After installing, you can access the Vive desktop app on your computer. You can go to Viveport from any of the following: §...
  • Page 44 Wait for the progress to show that the download is complete. To find your downloaded content, click the Library tab on your computer's Vive app. Setting up your Viveport PIN Set a PIN to authorize purchases in Viveport.
  • Page 45 Vive desktop app on your computer. From your computer's Vive app, click the Library tab. Make sure you're signed in to your HTC account to see your previously downloaded content. Select the title that you want to launch.

  • Page 46: Viveport Basics

    If you haven't installed Vive software, you need to install it first before you can download and launch your Viveport purchases. Get Vive software from www.vive.com/setup/. If you're signed in with the same HTC Account you made the purchase with, you should be able to find the VR content.
  • Page 47 Subscribe now to sign up. § On your computer, launch the Vive desktop app and sign in to your HTC Account, if required. Click the Subscription tab to see more details. Which titles are available as part of Viveport Subscription? Viveport titles that are participating in Viveport Subscription are noted on their product pages.
  • Page 48 On Viveport mobile app, tap Library on the slide-out menu to see your title selections. § On your computer, launch the Vive desktop app and sign in to your HTC Account, if required. Click the Library tab to see your title selections.

  • Page 49: Viveport Mobile App

    Vive system. However, in Vive software, you will have to sign in so that you can browse all the content that is available to you.
  • Page 50 Viveport § During the installation of Vive software, you will be asked to sign in to your HTC Account. Follow the instructions there to create an HTC Account or sign in to your social account to connect. § Go to www.viveport.com, and then click Sign in at the right upper corner of the page.

  • Page 51: Viveport Pin

    Why can’t I sign in to my HTC Account? If you created your HTC Account with an email address, make sure that you fill in the right email address and password. If you forgot your password, you can reset your password from the sign- in page.

  • Page 52: Downloading And Launching Content

    "free"? There’s a small chance that the purchase wasn’t updated correctly due to poor network connection. Try to refresh or sign out and sign back in to your HTC Account. Will I get an invoice after I make a purchase? No.
  • Page 53 If you haven't installed Vive software, you need to install it first before you can download and launch your Viveport purchases. Get Vive software from www.vive.com/setup/. If you're signed in with the same HTC Account you made the purchase with, you should be able to find the VR content.
  • Page 54 You need to download Vive software from www.vive.com/setup/. After installing, you can access the Vive desktop app on your computer. Vive makes sure that the VR content you want to download is compatible with your Windows environment. If the content doesn't support your Windows environment, you won't be able to download the content.

  • Page 55: Reviewing Content

    If I reformat my hard drive or get a new computer, will I need to purchase and/or download my content again? You need to download Vive software from www.vive.com/setup/. After installing, you can access the Vive desktop app on your computer.

  • Page 56: Viveport Troubleshooting

    I'm getting a notification to upgrade Vive software. What should I do? Vive software makes sure that you get the most updated version. When you're currently in VR, you'll get a notification asking if you'd like to receive the latest update when you're done with VR.

  • Page 57: Phone Notifications

    Pairing your phone with Vive Pair your phone with the Vive system to start receiving notifications while you're on VR. On your computer's Vive app, go to the Settings tab, and then click Set up a Phone. On your phone, open the Vive app.

  • Page 58: Choosing Which Notifications To Receive On Vr

    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 57.

  • Page 59: Editing Or Adding Message Replies (Android Users)

    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 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 Vive app settings Changing the Vive system language Once you change the language on the Vive app, the language used in the Vive VR system will also be changed. From your computer, open the Vive app. Click the Settings tab.
  • Page 67 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: Steamvr

    SteamVR SteamVR Activating the front-facing camera You need to enable the settings for the front-facing camera before you can use it in VR, such as for showing your actual room. From your computer, open the SteamVR app. Click , and then select Settings Camera. Click Enable Camera.

  • Page 69: How Can I Capture Screenshots In Vr

    SteamVR 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?

  • Page 70: How Can I Opt-In To Steamvr Beta

    SteamVR How can I opt-in to SteamVR Beta? From your computer, open the Steam app. Under Library, right-click SteamVR, and then click Properties. Select the Betas tab. Under Select the beta you would like to opt into drop-down list, select beta - SteamVR Beta Update.

  • Page 71: Trademarks And Copyrights

    © 2017 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 72: Index

    System Dashboard 66 Headset - about 6 - adjusting the IPD 9 - adjusting the lens distance 10 Vive phone app - connecting a USB device 11 - downloading 57 - putting on 8 - pairing 57 - replacing the face cushion 13...

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