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Using the VIVE Pro 2 Full Kit

We got the VIVE Pro 2 headset and base stations, controllers (HTC Vive Controllers and VALVE INDEX Controllers), and trackers in the lab.

Setup

For the full official tutorial, please refer to: VIVE Pro 2 Setup Video


1. Hardware Connections & Power Check

Before powering on your PC: Ensure all devices are powered and connected

  • Headset, controllers, Lighthouse base stations, and the Vive link box should all be connected and displaying a solid green light.
  • Link box connections:
    • DisplayPort cable → Graphics card port
    • USB 3.0 cable → PC USB port
    • Power adapter → Mains socket (requires 9V/1.5A or above)

2. Software Setup

Essential Installations

  1. Steam & SteamVR

    • Download and install the Steam client.
    • Search for and install SteamVR from your Steam library.
  2. Room Tracking Configuration

    • Open SteamVR > Room Setup
    • Base stations should be mounted at a height of at least 2m, positioned diagonally across the play area.
    • Controller pairing: Press and hold the system button until the LED flashes blue → complete pairing via the SteamVR interface.

3. Unreal Engine 5 Integration

Initial Project Setup

  1. Create a New VR Project

    • Template: Games > Virtual Reality
    • Select Blueprint and Starter Content (for quick testing)
    • Tip: Begin with a simple scene (e.g., an empty template) and gradually increase complexity.
  2. Enable Key Plugins

    • Go to Edit > Plugins and enable the following:
      • OpenXR (recommended for SteamVR compatibility and future-proofing)
      • OpenXR Hand Tracking
      • OpenXR Vive Tracker (if using external trackers)
      • SteamVR (required for the Vive Pro 2)
      • Oculus VR (if Oculus headset compatibility is needed)
      • VR Expansion Plugin (for advanced interaction features)
    • Restart UE5 to apply changes.
  3. Optimise Project Settings

    • Open Edit > Project Settings and adjust the following:
      • Rendering: Enable Forward Rendering and disable Mobile HDR.
      • XR Settings: Tick Start in VR and enable Motion Controller Support.

These settings improve performance and ensure VR input responsiveness.


4. Testing & Troubleshooting

Launching VR Preview

  1. Click the dropdown next to the Play button (⚠️ not the default Play mode) and select VR Preview.
  2. Put on the headset to test real-time scene rendering.

❗ Common Issues & Checks

  • Device Not Detected:

    • Confirm cables are securely connected and devices are powered.
    • Restart SteamVR or the PC if necessary.
  • Tracking Issues:

    • Ensure base stations are unobstructed and correctly positioned.
    • Check for reflective surfaces or direct sunlight interfering with the sensors.
  • Performance Lag:

    • Lower rendering resolution or disable unnecessary plugins.
    • Update graphics drivers and Unreal Engine to the latest stable version.

With these steps completed, your HTC Vive Pro 2 should be ready for Unreal Engine 5.2+