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Ticky’s VR Setup

Starting from the top; I use a Quest Pro headset via Steam Link to VRChat on Windows 10.

Note

I do not recommend the Quest Pro, due to ongoing software quality issues, although it sadly remains the most fully-featured eye and face-tracking headset available.

Senses

Haptics

I use a set of four Tundra Trackers, with the Tundra Tracker I/O expansion board, and coin vibration motors attached. These operate via the Haptic Pancake software.

Tundra Trackers are positioned on my headset, waist, and feet. The haptics from these work well on paws and waist, but due to the mass of the Quest Pro, are much less obvious on the head. The tracker on the headset is for integrating the SteamVR and Quest tracking systems, and was previously used for chest tracking instead.

Warning

The Tundra Tracker I/O expansion board is not built for the purpose of haptics, and has historically required surface-mount soldering in order to attach haptics devices.

For those starting out now, however, there is a much cheaper and simpler option; the Tundra Tapper.

Audio & Low-Frequency Effects

Given the poor audio quality on the Quest Pro, I use a pair of Koss Sporta Pro headphones instead of the built-in audio solution. For VR clubbing, I will also use the Quest Pro’s second headphone jack to connect a Woojer Strap 3 to provide low-frequency effects. I tend to strap it against the skin of my sternum just below my bra.

Interactions

The Quest Pro provides face and eye tracking to VRCFaceTracking via OSC. Additionally, the eye tracking controls my ears’ behaviour via Unity animations.

I use a pair of Valve Index knuckles for finger tracking and general navigation inputs.

Software

Future Additions

I have a FluxPose kit on order, which I hope will act as a drop-in replacement for my Tundra Trackers and their haptics. Given that will leave my Index knuckles as the last remaining Lighthouse-tracked devices, I am tempted to try going for gloves or some other higher-fidelity hand tracking option.

I’m very interested in tail control and haptics! I want to investigate more options in that area. I am inspired by the Imaginary Joint paper, and the Freedom of Form Foundation, among others.

I additionally own a brain-sensing headband compatible with the BFIVRC/VRChat BioSensing tech, but I’ve not found a good way to integrate it with my setup.

Because I have face tracking, I have tried and failed to get VRCBiteTech working. I should poke it again soon.

Future work on my VR avatar in this vein includes moving to properly rigged digitigrade legs, a floor collider for my tail, paw splay for my footpaws, as well as working on using VRChat’s Head Chop component to be able to see my muzzle in VR. I’m also very interested in integrating fur shaders and interactions with such.

Outside of VR, I already find myself “moving my tail” subconsciously even though I don’t physically have one. I would love to make that real in VR and also real in meatspace!

Contact Me

If you want to ask me questions about my setup, or you have suggestions or ideas, or otherwise just talk shop, please feel free to reach out to me via my website!