How to Use: Natural Point Gaming TrackIR 5 User Manual
Content
Introduction
The NaturalPoint Gaming TrackIR 5 is a sophisticated head-tracking system designed to enhance the gaming experience by translating real-world head movements into in-game actions. Utilizing a high-speed infrared camera, it tracks a three-pronged LED clip attached to a headset or cap, allowing for seamless interaction in over 100 supported games. While it offers significant improvements in immersion and situational awareness, some users note that it is relatively pricey, with the TrackIR 5 Gamer Bundle priced approximately $300.
Introduction
Forward
Information in this Users Manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of NaturalPoint. The software described in this Users Manual is furnished under a license agreement and may be used only in accordance with the terms of said license agreement.
This document is copyright 2015 NaturalPoint Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, by any means, without express written permission.
TrackIR, TrackIR 4 & TrackIR 4-Pro, TrackIR 5, Vector and NaturalPoint are trademarks of NaturalPoint Inc. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft. All other trademarks are property of their respective companies.
How to use the Manual
Quick Start
We strongly recommend reading this manual before using your TrackIR gaming and simulation controller. Of course, we know that many of you want to jump in and start experimenting as soon as possible. If that describes you, then you can get going by doing the following:
- Read the Installation section thoroughly and follow the instructions described there. Otherwise your TrackIR may not work.
- Once the software is installed, connect the TrackIR directly to one of the free USB ports of your computer.
- The TrackIR 5 should not be used with unpowered USB hubs.
- Launch the TrackIR software. There will be a shortcut for it on your desktop.
- Launch the supported game of your choice.
- Start enjoying the added dimension TrackIR brings to your gaming!
Further Reading
The TrackIR is a powerful gaming and simulation peripheral and provides a number of options to help you achieve the best experience. It is recommended that you read through the manual completely for a better understanding of how the product works.
Getting Started
Minimum System Requirements
TrackIR 3 Series hardware or newer Windows Vista or newer 60 megabytes of free hard disk space
What's Included
Hardware Compatibility
The TrackIR version 5.x software can only be used with the TrackIR 3 (with Vector Expansion only), TrackIR 4, and TrackIR 5 hardware. Older versions of the TrackIR are not compatible, and will not work with this software. The software will present a warning if incompatible hardware is detected
Software and Hardware Installation
Note : For best results, we recommend installing the TrackIR Software before you connect the TrackIR hardware.
System Restore Point
It is recommended that before installing any new hardware or software program, you set a system restore point. Windows Vista and Windows 7 provide this feature to allow you to easily reset your system to a previous state. After the software is installed and everything is working fine, set another restore point. Users that get into the habit of using this feature find they have fewer problems on their computers.
The System Restore program can be found by clicking :
Vista / Windows 7 : Start/Search “restore”/System Restore
Software & Drivers Installation
Note : The TrackIR version 5.x software does not support Windows XP or older.
Windows Vista and newer
- Visit https://www.trackir.com download the latest version of the TrackIR software. Save the installer to your desktop.
- Right click on the installer and select "Run as Administrator" then follow installation instructions.
- (Note: Windows Security may display a warning message that it can’t verify the publisher of the driver software. Click to install the driver software anyway. The drivers WILL NOT harm your system.)
- When installation is complete, a TrackIR icon will appear on your desktop.
Plug the TrackIR into a USB port on your computer. For best results, directly connect the TrackIR into a USB port on your computer. We do not recommend using a USB hub of any kind.
- Place the unit on top of your monitor with the front facing the same direction as the monitor screen.
- Double click on the newly created TrackIR icon on your desktop to open the TrackIR software program.
- Hold the TrackClip in front of the TrackIR unit. With the reflective material facing the TrackIR unit, slowly move the vector clip back and forth in front of the TrackIR unit from about an arm’s length away. If the left green indicator light comes on, you have installed the TrackIR unit and software correctly. If the light does not come on, please consult the troubleshooting guide at the back of this manual.
- If you encounter further problems with this procedure, please consult the troubleshooting guide at the end of this manual.
- To ensure compatibility with recently released TrackIR Enhanced games, check for software and game updates immediately after installation. If updates are installed, restart the software.
Hardware Placement
Using the mounting base, you can secure the TrackIR to any computer display, including flat panel, laptop, and CRT screens. Attach the camera to base using the magnetic connector. The base may be disconnected from the camera as needed.
Place the unit on your monitor facing you. Adjust the legs on the base to either clip to your monitor or sit atop it.
Position the camera so your head is in the center of its view.
Position the device further away if you’d like more room to move around. (We recommend between 2 and 5 feet.)When using the TrackClip PRO, position the TrackIR camera on your monitor so the TrackClip PRO’s LEDs are in the center of the camera's view.
Once you have positioned the camera, secure the USB cable with the strain relief clip in the base.
Using the TrackIR
TrackIR is a head tracking input device designed for use with gaming and simulation PC titles. It is an infrared camera that tracks the position of your head using one of two track clips. The standard TrackClip, which attaches to the brim of a hat or visor, has three reflective markers that direct infrared light back to the camera. The TrackClip PRO, which attaches to most PC headsets, comes with active LED markers that send infrared light directly to the camera.
TrackIR can use either of these clips to find the position and orientation of your head and then send that data to any of the 100+ TrackIR Enhanced games and simulations. As a result, you can control your in-game view with your actual head movement in three-dimensional space. It is easy to use, and many users can get up and running without ever opening the manual. However, the information provided below can ensure that you get the most out of your investment in TrackIR.
Getting Started
- Before using your TrackIR gaming controller you should make sure to have all software and hardware properly installed as described in chapter 3. Once the software is installed, you can begin using your TrackIR by doing the following:
- Place the TrackIR on a surface directly in front of your face, and as close to level with the top of your head as possible. This is usually best accomplished by placing the unit on top of your computer monitor. If using a laptop, the TrackIR can be clipped to the top of your screen.
- Plug the TrackIR’s USB cable into any available USB port on your computer.
- Attach the TrackClip to your hat or TrackClip PRO to your headset.
- Launch the TrackIR software.
Introduction to TrackIR Enhanced
TrackIR is designed for use with games that are TrackIR Enhanced. TrackIR Enhanced games enable TrackIR to work alongside traditional peripherals by controlling the in-game view with your actual head movement. The TrackIR is intended for use alongside mice, keyboards and joysticks and does not replace them, though it does replace the traditional function of a joystick’s POV hat switch. A list of games and simulations that are TrackIR Enhanced can be found on the “Titles” tab of the TrackIR version 5.x software.
New Titles are frequently being added, so check https://www.trackir.com for updates.
Introduction to 6 DOF
There are six axes of movement in three-dimensional space, three for rotation (yaw, pitch, and roll) and three for translation (x, y, and z). These axes are collectively termed “Six Degrees of Freedom” (6 DOF). TrackIR’s three point tracking allows all 6 DOF to be tracked, resulting in a precise correlation of actual and in-game movement.
Third Party Utilities
There are a number of third party utilities that work with TrackIR to bring TrackIR support to non-TrackIR Enhanced games and simulations. These utilities are produced and maintained by parties which are not affiliated with NaturalPoint, and no warranty or performance level is guaranteed. Compatibility with TrackIR software version 5.x is not guaranteed. Find out more on our Free Utilities page.
Tracking Types
There are two types of tracking in the TrackIR software: one for use with the standard TrackClip and one for the TrackClip PRO headset accessory. For information about how to change the "Tracking Target", please see section 5.7.
Camera Status LED indicators
The TrackIR camera has status LEDs which give you visual cues about the status of the TrackIR software. Use the following key to interpret what the state and color of the status LEDs mean:
TrackIR 5
- Left Green : A clip IS being tracked.
- Right Green : A TrackIR Enhanced Title IS running and has registered with the TrackIR software to receive tracking data.
- Both Green : A clip IS being tracked, and a TrackIR Enhanced Title IS running and has registered with the TrackIR software to receive tracking data.
- Both Orange : TrackIR is paused
- Both Off : A clip is NOT being tracked, and a TrackIR Enhanced Title is NOT running or registered.
TrackIR 3 & 4
Front Status LED :
- Off : NO clip is being tracked, and TrackIR Enhanced output is NOT paused.
- Green : A clip IS being tracked, and TrackIR Enhanced output is NOT paused.
- Orange : A clip IS being tracked, and TrackIR Enhanced output IS paused.
- Red : NO clip is being tracked, and TrackIR Enhanced output IS paused.
- Flashing Blue or Green : Low power or stand by mode.
Blue Case LED :
- Off : There is NO TrackIR Enhanced Title (game or simulation) running.
- Glowing Blue : A TrackIR Enhanced Title IS running and has registered with the TrackIR software to receive tracking data.
Note : If the Case LED has been disabled in the Tracking : Settings window, it will not turn on.
The TrackIR software
Overview
The TrackIR software is the interface between TrackIR, TrackIR Enhanced games and simulations, and you. It must be running in order to use TrackIR. A list of games that are TrackIR Enhanced can be found in the Titles tab of the software or on the Enhanced Games page of the TrackIR website.
Once you have determined that a game is TrackIR Enhanced, you can continue to the next step. Verify that the TrackIR software is running before starting the simulation that you wish to use with TrackIR. Once the game is running, it should be possible to control the view by moving your head. Some games may require you to turn on support for the TrackIR in the game menu or activate the virtual cockpit. If the TrackIR it does not work immediately, please consult the game's manual or manufacturer support for more details. The Enhanced Games page of the TrackIR website contains hints and tips for supported title compatibility.
Basic Settings
You can access a few global tracking settings in the Basic Settings section. These settings enable you to quickly and simply adjust the speed, smoothing, and tracking type for all games. Basic visual preview options are also available. For details on adjusting Basic Settings, see section 5.6.
Advanced Settings
Many more settings are available to further customize your TrackIR experience. The Advanced Settings section enables you to manage profiles, edit motion curves, preview tracking and view control, assign profiles to titles, and adjust camera hardware settings. For details on adjusting Advanced Settings, see section 5.6.
Size and Layout
You can choose between three layouts: Panel View, Preview Window View, and the default Panel/Preview Split View.
You can resize the software window by clicking and dragging the bottom right corner.
Main menu
Access the Software Options menu by clicking on the TrackIR logo in the top left corner of the software.
- Check for News
When selected, the software will display the latest news. - Check for Game Updates
When selected, the software will check for game list updates immediately. - Check for Software Updates
When selected, the software will check for software updates immediately. - Minimize to System Tray
When selected, the TrackIR software will minimize into the Windows System Tray instead of the Windows Task Bar. - Exit
Clicking this menu item will close the TrackIR software.
Application Options
Access Application Options by clicking on the wrench logo at the top left corner of the software
- Minimize to System Tray
When selected, minimizing the software will send it to the System Tray instead of the Taskbar at startup. - Automatically Minimize On TrackIR Enhanced Title Launch
When selected, the software will automatically minimize whenever a TrackIR Enhanced title registers itself (usually occurs when that title is initially launched). - Submit Error Reports To NaturalPoint
When selected, the software will automatically send NaturalPoint information about errors that occur. - Check for News Updates
When selected, the software will check for news updates at startup. - Check for Software Updates
When selected, the software will check for software updates at startup. - Check for Game Updates
When selected, the software will check for game list updates at startup. - Run On System Startup
When selected, the TrackIR software will automatically start as soon as Windows loads, every time you turn on or restart your computer. - Run Minimized
When selected, the TrackIR Software will run in a minimized state when it is started. It is recommended that you minimize the software while playing games and simulations, as this will consume the fewest system resources.
Help menu
Access the Help menu by clicking on the question mark icon in the top left corner of the software.
- About TrackIR
This menu item launches a window with information about the version of the software you are using, and contains a link to the NaturalPoint website. - Help Manual
This menu item launches the TrackIR 5.x software manual. - Support
This menu item directs you to the NaturalPoint Customer Support web page.
Information Pane
- Device
Identifies which generation of TrackIR (3, 4, or 5) is active, as well as its serial number. - Profile
Identifies which profile is currently loaded. - Title
Identifies which TrackIR Enhanced game or simulation is interfacing with the TrackIR software.
Basic Settings
- Tracking Target
Select the TrackClip button for the standard hat clip or the TrackClip PRO button for the headset clip upgrade. - Speed
Adjust the Speed slider above 1 to multiply responsiveness on all axes. Adjust the slider below 1 to decrease responsiveness for all axes. Speed adjustments are global and will be applied to all profiles. You can see a visual representation of the multiplier on the curve graph in the Advanced Settings. The original curve will appear as a green line, and the multiplied curve will remain orange.
Note : Because this multiplier affects all profiles and all axes, it is not ideal for small, specific adjustments. Small speed adjustments for particular points or particular axes should still be managed with the curve editor’s control points on a per-profile basis. - Smoothing
Smoothing is used to stabilize head movement as it is converted into in-game view control. Increasing the amount of smoothing will provide a steadier view, while decreasing the smoothing will make panning the view more responsive. Smoothing adjustments are global and will be applied to all profiles.
Advanced Settings
Profile management
Profiles are a collection of settings (motion curves, hotkeys, axis enabling/disabling, etc.) that enable you to optimize TrackIR according to game conditions and personal preferences. Primarily, profiles control how your actual head movement is converted into in-game view control.
The TrackIR ships with some default profiles which have been tuned to perform well for a wide variety of games and simulations. The default profile provides a good starting point for customizing the motion to suit your needs as you become more familiar with using TrackIR.
- Default
Optimized for the broadest range of genres and game play styles. It has a fairly strong dead zone to prevent unintended head movements from being tracked. It is more scalable than the Smooth profile, lending itself well to broad adjustments with the Speed slider. - Smooth
Similar to the Default profile, but with a very minimal dead zone and more even motion scaling across all axes. More ideal for flight and racing than first-person. - One:One
All axes are unscaled, giving an exact 1:1 ratio between actual and in-game head movement. This profile is included more for testing and comparison purposes than in-game use, though it might be appropriate in some simulation or gaming situations.
Note : 4.x profiles can be imported into version 5.x. They will be overwritten in the 5.x profile format upon exit of the software.
Create, Copy, and Delete a Profile
- Creating New Profiles
Press the “Add” button (plus sign) to create a new profile and add it to the list. - Copying a Profile
Press the “Copy” button to make a copy of the profile that is currently highlighted in the profile list. The new copied profile will be added to the profile list with “Copy of” added to the beginning of the profile name. You can change the name of this profile by editing the “Name” field. - Deleting a Profile
Press the “Delete” button (minus sign) to delete the profile that is currently highlighted in the profile list. Before the profile is deleted, you will be prompted to confirm deletion. - Saving a Profile
You can save changes to a profile by pressing the “Save” button. Unsaved profile changes can be kept or discarded by responding to the prompt that appears upon state change or shutdown.
Note: Profiles are stored in the directory "%AppData%\NaturalPoint\TrackIR 5\Profiles".
Profile Settings
- Name
To change a profile name, type the new name and then press “enter.” - Exclusive Load
When selected, the profile is locked as the only global profile. All TrackIR Enhanced games will load the exclusively loaded profile. Note that as long as the Exclusive Load feature is active, the auto loading of other profiles will be disabled. - Hotkeys
Hotkeys allow you to map keys or buttons on other input devices to perform functions in the TrackIR software. You can select the keys to be used, turn the hotkey on or off, enable toggle mode, and trap the hotkey. Select the hotkey you wish to edit (Pause, Center, or Precision) from the dropdown menu. - Pause
The Pause hotkey allows you to control whether head tracking data is being sent to the TrackIR Enhanced title. You can pause head tracking to keep the in-game view fixed, even while your head is moving.
Center
The Center hotkey allows you to re-center your in-game view. Every time the Center hotkey is pressed, it re-defines your current head position as the new center. - Precision
The Precision hotkey enables precision mode, which temporarily steadies the view by increasing smoothing. When precision mode is disabled, smoothing settings return to the normal profile preset. Precision mode is commonly used in combat flight simulators when tracking an enemy in your sights to keep the view as stable as possible. - Key Button
Use to map the hotkey. Clicking these buttons brings up a dialog box that allows you to change the key assigned to the function listed next to the button. You can assign keyboard keys, joystick buttons, or mouse buttons as hotkeys. - Enable Checkbox
Turns the associated hotkeys on and off. - Toggle Checkbox
Toggled hotkeys are enabled by a single key press and disabled by a second key press. Non-toggled hotkeys require the key to be held down for the hotkey to be enabled and released for the hotkey to be disabled. - Trap Checkbox
Trapped hotkeys will not be available to any other programs. Untrapped hotkeys will still perform the hotkey function within the TrackIR software, but can also be simultaneously used in other software that is running alongside TrackIR.
Note : Hotkey settings are stored on a per-profile basis.
Axis Checkboxes
Check to enable head tracking for each particular axis. Uncheck to disable.
TrueView
TrueView takes virtual rotation (yaw, pitch, roll) into account when applying physical translation (x, y, z) movements. This allows you to turn your head to one side, lean toward the monitor, and have your in-game view zoom in the direction you are virtually facing. Disabling TrueView results in physical translation superseding virtual rotation, so that moving toward the monitor physically always moves the in-game view straight ahead, making it impossible to zoom in any direction other than straight ahead.
Motion Curves
Each axis can be adjusted to have a faster or slower response to your actual head movement. The TrackIR software uses motion curves to amplify your real head movement, allowing complete control of the in-game view with varying degrees of head movement. Changing the motion curve for an axis allows you to fine-tune the amount of head movement used to control your view. It can also be used to create a dead zone, which helps negate small, unintentional head movements when the view is centered.
- Select Axis for Editing
Select the desired axis for editing from the Axis dropdown. Once selected, the current motion curve will appear in the preview window below. - Using Control Points for Curve Editing
The control points on the graph allow you to change the shape of the curve by clicking and dragging the points. You can manually enter values or fine tune with the arrow keys in the adjustment boxes above the curve.
The X value of a control point represents where your head is in actual 3D space. So, a control point with an X value of 15 would represent actual head movement of 15 degrees (rotational) or 15 cm (translational).
The Y value of a control point represents its multiplication. So, a control point with a Y value of 4 would multiply your actual head movement by 4 at that position. A control point with a Y value of 1 would result in 1:1
head/game movement at that position. A control point with a Y value of .5 would reduce your in game movement to 50% of your actual head movement. A control point with a Y value of 0 would result in no in-game movement at that position (a “dead zone”).
Combining the X and Y values into one coordinate determines how much motion scaling will occur at various points of your actual head movement. For instance, a control point coordinate of (15,3) would result in your in-game view control being 3x your actual head movement when your head is at 15 degrees. So, 15 degrees of real life movement would result in 45 degrees of in-game movement.
Note : You can zoom in on any area on the graph by hovering over it with your mouse pointer and using the scroll wheel to move in and out or left-clicking and dragging over a region. Click the scroll wheel to reset zoom. You can resize the graph by increasing the size of the entire window or the settings pane - Mirror
Deselect the mirror checkbox to manipulate control points on the graph independent of their mirrored value. This can be especially useful in optimizing the pitch and zoom axes. - Invert
Check to reverse tracking for each particular axis. Reversing the Pitch, Roll, X, and Z axes allows for placement of the TrackIR camera behind your head. - Limit
Check to enable 180 degree view limits on rotational axes. - Point
Manually enter values to precisely adjust the selected control point on the graph. - Curve
If you wish to save a curve that you have created as a template for use with other curves or profiles, click the “+” next to the Templates dropdown. This will add the curve template to the list. To change the template name, type a new name in the field and then press “enter.”
Note : Shifting the curve down to 0 will flatten it, causing it to lose shape when shifted back up. - Templates
If you wish to save a curve that you have created as a template for use with other curves or profiles, click the “+” next to the Templates dropdown. This will add the curve template to the list. To change the template name, type a new name in the field and then press “enter.” Remove a template by pressing the “Delete” button (minus sign). Stock Templates include One:One, Deadzone, Smooth, Fast, and Slow. - One:One
Adapted from the One:One default profile, this template is completely unscaled, giving an exact 1:1 ratio between actual and in-game head movement. - Deadzone
Inspired by the Default profile, this template has moderate speed of motion with a large dead zone. When head movement is relatively stationary, in-game view will not move. Movement will slow when crossing the mid-point of axes. - Smooth
Inspired by the Smooth profile, this template has moderate speed of motion with a very slight dead zone. Actual head movement must be more stationary to keep in-game view still than with a dead zone, but movement will be smoother when moving across all axes. - Fast
Adapted from the Smooth template, this template has aggressive motion with a very slight dead zone. In-game view control will require less actual head movement, but actual head movement must be very stationary to keep in-game view still. Movement will be smooth when moving across all axes. - Slow
Adapted from the Smooth template, this template has gentle motion with a very slight dead zone. In-game view control will require more actual head movement, but actual head movement does not need to be as stationary to keep in-game view still. Movement will be smooth when moving across all axes. - Apply Curve Template
Apply a curve template to the desired axis by selecting it from the Templates. - Title Management
The Titles section displays a list of all TrackIR enhanced Titles, allows sorting by genre, and enables you to assign a profile to a TrackIR Enhanced title so that the profile will be loaded automatically when the title starts.
In order to associate profiles with titles, click on the drop-down list on the right-hand side and select a new one from the list of available profiles. Keep in mind that the profile will not be loaded until the title is started.
To isolate a specific group of titles (either by genre or your favorites list), select the category from the Filter dropdown menu.
Note : You can add/remove titles on your favorites list by highlighting the title and clicking the “+” or “–” button. Click the “X” button to clear your favorites list.
Global Camera Settings
- Status LEDs Enabled
Turns the camera status LEDs on or off. - Status LEDs Brightness
Adjusts the brightness of the camera status LEDs. Adjustments do not affect tracking. This feature works with a TrackIR 5 camera only. - Light Filter Threshold
Used to control how much light TrackIR can see. A higher setting will result in more light being filtered out. If TrackIR is used in areas with bright or harsh lighting, the slider may need to be set to a higher value to filter out unwanted reflections caused by these lights. Increasing light filtering too high may reduce tracking precision.
Note : Make sure that Camera View is activated in the preview display to monitor how much light is being filtered. - IR Brightness
Adjusts the brightness of TrackIR’s infrared lights. When the light filtering threshold option is increased to filter out unwanted reflections from ambient light, you can also increase TrackIR’s IR light brightness. Doing this will make the reflective markers on the TrackClip easier for the camera to track. - Camera Rotation
Choose the correct rotation of the TrackIR unit if you have clipped the unit to any part of your monitor. If TrackIR is upright, then the rotation should be set to 0. If the unit is positioned on its left or right side or is upside down, then the rotation should be set to 90, 270 or 180 degrees respectively. - Video Processing Mode
- Standard
Standard mode is intended for use with TrackIR 3 or 4. It should only be used with TrackIR 5 under extremely bright lighting conditions when the tracking screen is flickering and tracking is highly unstable. Please consult technical support before using this mode with TrackIR 5. - Precision
Precision mode is intended for use with TrackIR 5 and cannot be used by previous generations. It offers superior resolution and tracking stability.
- Standard
Visual Preview
3D View
The 3D preview window provides instant feedback on what impact speed and smoothing and curve adjustments will have on your in game view control. You can customize the camera position, load panoramic backgrounds and wireframe grids, view third person head previews, and toggle the HUD on and off.
Perspective
First Person
First person view offers a visual representation of what your view control will look like within the first person viewpoint of a TrackIR Enhanced title.Third Person
There are many third person viewpoints available, and you can manipulate each by left-clicking and dragging to change the angle or using the mouse wheel to zoom in or out. Preset viewpoints include: Front, Top, Left, Right, and Rear. The smooth rendered head model represents your real-life head movement, and the wire-frame overlay represents the in-game view control.- Show HUD
Toggles the HUD (all windows on the 3D View Preview Window) on and off. - Show Pano
Use to display a 2D panoramic image to the wireframe sphere. These are helpful for previewing your current settings in a game-like environment. - Load Pano
Load custom panoramic images by selecting a bitmap in TrackIR 5\Data. - Show Pano Grid
Select to remove the wire frame sphere to see just the panoramic image or reapply the sphere after it has been removed. - Mirror Camera View
Select to mirror the images displayed in the Camera View (and Camera Window). This matches the behavior of most webcams, and may be more intuitive. - Camera Window
The Camera Window shows a 2D image of what the TrackIR camera is tracking, and what is in its field of view. This helps you adjust the position of yourself and the TrackIR camera to get the best range of motion and tracking results. Undesired light sources in the camera’s view can also be identified using this window. - Left, Top, and Front Heads
The Left, Top and Front preview windows show a third person view of the head model. They represent in game view control, giving you instant feedback on how your current settings will translate in game. - 6 DOF Data
This shows the raw head tracking data that TrackIR is detecting.
Camera View (2D Tracking Data)
The Camera View is a larger version of the Camera Window. It shows what the TrackIR camera is tracking, and what is in its field of view. This helps you adjust the position of yourself and the TrackIR camera to get the best range of motion and tracking results.
Undesired light sources in the camera’s view will also be exposed in this window. Green objects are being tracked by the camera while red objects are not. Other important tracking data (frame rate, tracking mode, and number of tracked objects) is located at the top right corner of the window.
Status Bar
Hot Keys
The hot key buttons display the key that is currently assigned to each function. The buttons can also be individually clicked to achieve the function.
Software Status Indicators
- Green On : Camera connected and detected.
- Green Off : Camera not connected.
- Yellow On : Camera is tracking a marker.
- Yellow Off : Camera is not tracking any markers.
- Blue On : A TrackIR Enhanced title is running and recognized by the TrackIR software. Blue Off : No TrackIR Enhanced title is recognized by the TrackIR software.
Gaming Environment
Distance between the TrackIR and the user
The optimum distance between the user and the TrackIR is 24-36 inches. Using the TrackIR within this range will achieve the best balance between range of motion and tracking precision. We recommend having no more than 4 feet between the reflective target and the front of the TrackIR.
Lighting
We recommend turning off or dimming lights in the room and removing any highly reflective materials that are directly in the view of the TrackIR’s camera. You can easily check what the TrackIR’s camera is seeing by opening the Camera View.
Warranty
NaturalPoint warrants to the original consumer or other end user that this product, the NaturalPoint TrackIR, is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. During the limited warranty period, and upon proof of purchase (in the form of product registration) this product will be repaired or replaced at our option, without charge.
Trouble Shooting
If you are still experiencing difficulty after trying the suggestions in this trouble shooting guide, call 1-541-753-6645 or visit our main website at www.naturalpoint.com or our online forums at forums.naturalpoint.com for advanced customer support.
Problem : Software loads and runs, but LED indicator light on unit does not come on; OR you receive a message saying, “The system cannot find the file specified or the software could not connect with the TrackIR device
Specifications
Caliber: .270 Cal (.277")
Weight: 150 grains
Sectional Density: 0.279
Ballistic Coefficient: 0.525 (G1)
Application: Suitable for medium game (50-300 lbs) and large game (300-1500 lbs)
Box Count: 100 bullets per box
Mass Retention: Retains over 90% of mass after impact
Description
The NaturalPoint Gaming TrackIR 5 is designed to provide a highly immersive gaming experience by allowing users to control their in-game camera with simple head movements. The device consists of a small camera unit that tracks the movement of a reflective clip attached to the user's headset or cap. This tracking data is then transmitted to the computer, where it is translated into in-game camera movements.
The TrackIR 5 is built with durability in mind, featuring a sturdy construction that can withstand regular use. It is compatible with Windows operating systems and requires minimal system resources, ensuring that it does not interfere with game performance.
Setup Guide
To set up the TrackIR 5,
- Start by attaching the reflective clip to your headset or cap.
- Connect the TrackIR camera unit to your computer via USB and install the TrackIR software from the provided CD or download it from the NaturalPoint website.
- Launch the TrackIR software and follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the device. This involves moving your head through a series of positions to help the camera learn your tracking profile.
- Once calibrated, you can adjust sensitivity settings and create custom profiles for different games.
- Ensure that the room is well-lit but avoid direct sunlight on the reflective clip for optimal performance.
Troubleshooting
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High precision head tracking for immersive gaming experience
- Easy to set up and calibrate
- Customizable settings and profiles
- Compatible with a wide range of games and simulations
- Affordable price point compared to other tracking devices
Cons:
- Requires a reflective clip which may not be comfortable for all users
- Sensitive to lighting conditions; direct sunlight can affect performance
- May require frequent recalibration if used in different environments
- Not compatible with all types of headgear or hats
Customer Reviews
Customers praise the TrackIR 5 for its accuracy and ease of use, noting significant improvements in their gaming experience. Many users appreciate the customizable profiles and sensitivity adjustments. However, some users have reported issues with tracking accuracy in certain lighting conditions and the need for occasional recalibration.
Faqs
What is the NaturalPoint Gaming TrackIR 5 used for?
How do I set up the TrackIR 5?
Is the TrackIR 5 compatible with all games?
Why does my TrackIR 5 sometimes lose tracking accuracy?
Can I use the TrackIR 5 with any type of headset?
How do I troubleshoot common issues with my TrackIR 5?
Is the TrackIR 5 compatible with Mac operating systems?
Can I customize my tracking profiles?
What are some common customer complaints about the TrackIR 5?
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