HTC is now offering Vive Specialist Setup in select regions.
The Vive allows you to walk around in virtual environments, in what Valve calls “room-scale” VR. The system tracks the headset and two controllers in 3D space, allowing you to move freely within a pre-configured range. Valve’s lighthouse technology is the key to the Vive’s tracking ability. It requires two IR-emitting base stations that must be installed high up on the wall to work correctly.
For some people, the thought of installing such a system can be daunting, but HTC wants VR to be accessible to everyone (that can afford it). The company is now offering a professional installation service for people who are either intimidated by dealing with that many cables, or simply don’t have the time to mess around with a calibration and installation process.
For a fee of $250, you can have an HTC-certified specialist come to your home and install the system for you. Installation includes identifying the ideal setup location, mounting the base stations and connecting the hardware. The specialist will also install and configure the SteamVR software. HTC said the installation comes with a 30-day “workmanship warranty.”
There's a tool on the Vive website that will determine if the installation service is available in your zip code. If you purchase the install, you will receive an email confirmation, followed by a call to schedule the install.
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