ommon HTC Vive

Virtual reality (VC) headsets

are trendy these days

. They provide a more immersive experience to the game world and the ability to move around - if everything is working properly. HTC's latest Vive headsets, including

the impressive Cosmos

and

the new Vive Pro 2

, are more stable than ever, but sometimes things can still go wrong.

From “headset not found” errors to pairing issues, we'll cover common issues that HTC Vive users face. Next, we'll suggest possible fixes and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix any issues you might be having with your HTC Vive.

Problems presented with an error code

(Error 108) Headset not found

This error can manifest itself in several ways, either as an error message (error 108) or as a flashing red light on the headset. This is usually the result of a USB or driver issue.

Possible fixes

:

First, make sure the headset is properly plugged in. If in doubt, remove everything and plug it back in.

The headset's power, USB, and HDMI cables should be plugged into the appropriate slots on the link box; from there, the USB and HDMI ports on the link box should be plugged into the PC and the power cord plugged into a power outlet.

When properly plugged in, the headset's light should be green, indicating that it's ready to use.

If everything is plugged in but the headset does not turn on, try another outlet.

Once done, if the problem persists, there a number of other things to try:

Restart the headset

Step 1:

In SteamVR, right click on the headset icon and select p>

Restart the Vive headset.

2nd step:

Wait for the reboot to complete.

Turn on and turn on the link box

Stop SteamVR.

2nd step:

Unplug the power cord and USB cord from the PC side of the link box (which means NOT the orange side of the link box).

Step3:

After a few minutes, plug the power cord and USB cord back into the link box. If you see a notification in the taskbar that a driver is being installed, wait for it to finish.

Step4:

Relaunch SteamVR. Keep in mind that you may have to repeat this process a few times for the error to stop appearing.

Restart your computer

Step 1:

Exit SteamVR and restart your computer.

Use another USB port

Sometimes plugging into USB 3.0 and 3.1 ports can cause errors. In this case, try using a USB 2.0 port instead. If there's an already used and working USB port - say, the one your keyboard or mouse is plugged into - try moving the Vive connection there. If after trying all possible USB ports you still have no connection, try resetting your USB devices using the following steps.

Step 1:

Disconnect the connecting cables from your PC.

2nd step:

Go to

SteamVR > Settings > General

and make sure the box

Developer Settings

is checked.

Step3:

Click on

Reset

in the sidebar.

Step4:

Check if the USB cable of the link box is disconnected from the PC. Click on

Delete all SteamVR devices

and

click

Yes

when prompted.

Step5:

Exit SteamVR, reconnect the link box to your PC, and relaunch SteamVR.

If you have tried all the fixes detailed above, it may be that your USB chipset is causing the problem. Consult the

Steam support page

for more explanation on compatible USB chipsets.

Chuong Nguyen/Digital Trends

(Error 113) Path register not writable

This is usually due to a lack of proper installation permissions. You will need to change your permissions in Windows.

Change permissions

Step 1:

Navigate to the folder for which you want to change permissions. p>

2nd step:

Right click on it and select

Properties

.

Step3:

Click on the tab

Security

.

Step 4:

Check the names listed in the

Username group

box. If the account you are using does not appear, click

Add

and enter the name of the user you want to add. Skip this step if the username is already displayed.

Step5:

To change permissions, click

To allow

or< /p>

To refuse

Check the box

Permissions for user or group

. In order to resolve error 113 with the Vive, you will need to allow access.

(Error 200) Driver failed

This error message indicates that the OpenVR driver failed. If you added a file or folder to the SteamVR driver directory, deleting it should fix the problem. If not, you may not have permission to write to the user directory.

Change permissions

Step 1:

Right-click in Windows Explorer and select the folder for which you want to change permissions.

2nd step:

Click on

Properties

.

Step3:

Click on the tab

Security

.

Step4:

Check the names listed in the box

Group or usernames

. If the account you are using does not appear, click

Add

and enter the name of the user you want to add. Skip this step if the username is already displayed.

Step5:

To change permissions, click

To allow

or< /p>

Check the Refuse box

in the case

Permissions for user or group

. In order to resolve the 200 error with the Vive, you will need to allow access.

Error 109/400

If you see this code, it's usually because your headset isn't properly connecting your GPU. Check that the link box and your main display are connected to the same GPU in your setup. If you must use a laptop, make sure the connection uses a discrete GPU. Sometimes changing to "prefer maximum performance" or similar settings will force the computer to make the correct change.

(Error 206) Driver not calibrated

Error 206 means SteamVR was unable to load your headset calibration. To fix the problem, you will need to reset your headset to force reinstall the drivers.

Reinstall headset drivers

Step 1:

Unplug the headphones.

2nd step:

In SteamVR, navigate to

Settings > Reset

and click on

Delete all SteamVR devices

. Wait a minute.

Step3:

Plug your headset back in and wait for the drivers to install.

Step4:

If repeated attempts do not resolve the issue, Valve's support website states that you may have a faulty unit and encourages users to

contact HTC through the company's website

.

(Error 207) Invalid driver calibration

This error is similar to error 206, in that it indicates a failure to calibrate the headset to be loaded by SteamVR. As such, the steps to resolve the issue are the same.

Reinstall headset drivers

Step 1:

Unplug the headphones.

2nd step:

In SteamVR, navigate to

Settings > Reset

and click on

Delete all SteamVR devices

. Wait a minute.

Step3:

Plug your headset back in and wait for the drivers to install.

If repeated attempts do not resolve the issue, Valve's support website states that you may have a faulty unit and encourages users to

contact HTC through the company's website

.

(Error 208) HMD display not not found/(Error 208) HMD found via USB, but monitor not found

If you encounter error 208 with the message "HMD display not found" or "HMD found over USB, but monitor not found", try these potential fixes.

Update your graphics card drivers.

Check the connections of all cables - those from the headphones to the link box and from the link box to the PC and to the power output alike. The power cord in particular can come loose after heavy use. This can be checked by removing the removable cable panel on the MHD by pushing it forward.

Make sure the orange-tipped headset cords are plugged into the orange ports on the link box.

(Error 215) GPU connection failed

This usually happens when your graphics card has an important update that hasn't been installed yet. Make sure your GPU is fully updated. If you have multiple GPUs, it's a good idea to disable or remove all but the one you're using for Vive if this issue keeps reoccurring. Sometimes DisplayPort adapters can also cause this problem and should be removed to fix it.

(Error 301) Connection failed

This indicates that vrserver.exe failed to start or connect. Sometimes this is because multiple instances of the program are running at the same time.

Kill VRServer processes

Step 1:

Exit SteamVR.

2nd step:

Type

Task Manager

in the Windows search bar and open the

Task Manager.

Step3:

Find all instances of

vrserver.exe

running and quit the process.

Step4:

Run

SteamVR

.

If this does not resolve the issue, Valve's support page asks users to submit a system report as detailed in the introduction to this article.

Bill Roberson/Digital Trends

(Error 302) Initialization failed

This error means that vrserver.exe is having problems starting.

Usually this can be fixed by simply restarting your computer and trying again.

If this does not resolve the issue, Valve's support page asks users to submit a system report as detailed in the introduction to this article.

(1101 to 1112) USB error

All err or messages between 1101 and 1112 are related to USB failures. Reinstalling the headset's USB drivers may do the trick.

Reinstall headset drivers

Step 1:

Unplug your headset/link box, controllers, and any other VR peripherals you connected to your PC.

2nd step:

In SteamVR, navigate to

Settings > Reset,

and click

Remove all SteamVR USB devices

.

Step3:

Click< /p>

Yes

.

Step4:

Exit SteamVR.

Step5:

Step 6:

Restart SteamVR.

If this does not resolve the issue, Valve's support page asks users to submit a system report as detailed in the introduction to this article.

Vive headset issues

Dan Baker/Digital Trends< /p>

Inside-out tracking keeps messing up

The inside-out tracking used in the Cosmos does not require any configuration, but some players have found that the tracking seems to skip a lot or develop inaccuracies. The key is probably somewhere in the environment itself. If you're using a Cosmos in a dark room, try turning on brighter overhead lights. If there are mirrors or reflective surfaces around, try removing them and covering the windows to improve the experience. Also, completely empty walls can actually disrupt the headset's data collection, so having a few basic objects (outside the trigger range) might even be a good idea.

Unable to play an older title on a Cosmos headset

Not all Vive games work with Cosmos models, and sometimes bugs prevent them from working properly. HTC reports that around 90% of Viveport's most popular titles are compatible, but results may vary depending on what you like to play. Keep checking for updates to see if bugs are fixed or if greater compatibility is added.

The Vive Pro 2 exhibits flickering or artifacts, especially around the edges

Are you using a wired connection? Try going wireless. If this improves the problem, your headphones may have a faulty cable or possibly a software bug. This is a fairly common problem that is still being investigated. Contact HTC to report the issue, keep SteamVR updated, and play wirelessly for now.

Controller batteries keep dying

Cosmos controllers last between four and eight hours. It's a

a lot

Video: how to inspect and tighten a headset http://t.co/3wdlUjT2qE #cycling

— roadcyclinguk Wed Tue 05 16:24:30 +0000 2014

of variance, depending on how often the controller's sensors need to recalibrate, the lighting, and the content you're reading. For now, the best idea is to keep a few AA batteries on hand in case the controllers start dying unexpectedly. HTC would like to offer built-in rechargeable batteries in the future, but that hasn't happened yet.

Audio keeps breaking or dropping out

The Cosmos models use built-in headphones that rely on the USB 3.0 connection. If the headset is having trouble, there's probably a problem with that connection: make sure you're using an up-to-date USB 3.0 port and the connections are secure. Check cables for damage to make sure nothing has gone wrong: The motion-oriented VR experience can be harder on USB cables than many other uses.

Controller and base station issues

Controller not connected

If you find that your controller is not recognized by SteamVR, the color of the LED should give you an idea of ​​what to do next.

so blue

When the controller LED is solid blue, it means the controller is not connecting properly to the PC. You will need to re-pair your controllers. To do this, go to

SteamVR > Settings > Devices > Pair Controller.

so red

If the controller LED is solid red and the controller is not responding, try resetting your controller.

Step 1:

Simultaneously press and hold the trigger, menu button, trackpad button, and grip buttons.

2nd step:

While holding down these buttons, plug your controller into your PC via Micro USB.

Step3:

After plugging it in, wait five seconds, then release the buttons. Your PC will appear to find a new storage device. Ignore this prompt and unplug the controller.

Step4:

After that, the controller will be reset and should now work fine.

If the light is on is not on at all

If the LED shows no color, it means the controller is not powered on. Press the system button to turn on the controller. If the controller does not turn on, your controller needs to be charged. Plug your controllers into an outlet via the micro USB and AC adapter. While the controllers are plugged in and charging, the LED will show different colors:

Orange: the controller is charging.

Green: fully charged, controller on.

White — fully charged, controller off.

The controller's trackpad is jittery or hypersensitive.

If your controller is a little squirrely or difficult to use, it probably needs to be calibrated or the firmware needs to be updated.

Step 1:

In SteamVR, navigate to

SteamVR > Devices > Update Firmware

.

2nd step:

Power off the controller by holding down the System button until the LED turns off.

Step3:

With the controller turned off, hold down the trigger and grip.

Step4:

While holding down the trigger and grip button, press the system button. The controller should turn back on. When it does, it will make a sound different from the usual power-up sound.

One or both base station LEDs will not turn blue

This usually means that the Vive base station is having trouble stabilizing. Vibrations or movement can cause this error.

Make sure the bases are securely fastened. If stuck to the wall, tighten all screws and retaining nut. If you're on tripods, make sure movement on the floor doesn't send vibrations through the frame.

Base stations do not exit sleep mode (LEDs dim green)

If your Vive Lighthouse base stations won't come out of sleep mode, try this:

Unplug the base stations, then plug them back in.

Bill Roberson/Digital Trends

Base station LEDs glow purple or flash purple

This means that the base stations have trouble seeing each other.

Try to move anything that might be blocking Vive base stations. Including yourself. Follow the Steam VR on-screen instructions if necessary.

Make sure the Base Stations are tilted at an angle that allows them to see each other and the play space.

The base station light is off

If the Vive base station light is not on, the base station has no power.

Make sure the power cord is plugged in.

If the base station is plugged into an outlet but does not turn on, try another outlet.

Base station optical synchronization issues

Problems may occur with your base station while trying to sync. Here are some tips to make sure they are set up correctly for optical sync.

Check that your base station firmware is up to date. Go to

SteamVR > Devices > Update Firmware.

Make sure the path between base stations is not blocked, so they can see each other.

Do not place stations too far apart. They must be within 16 feet of each other.

Make sure the base stations are set to the correct modes. Press the mode button on the back of the stations so that one station is set to 'b' and the other to 'c'.

Consider mounting base stations higher, to ensure that your movement through the space of the venue does not interrupt their view.

If all of the above criteria are met, the base station LED should turn solid green when syncing. If it still doesn't, try using the sync cable.

Step 1:

The Vive package contains an optional long cable. Connect this cable to the base stations.

2nd step:

Press the mode buttons on the back of the stations until one station displays "a" and the other "b".< /p>

Step3:

If done correctly, the base station LEDs should now be solid green.

Software and headset issues

Device icon flashing green in Steam VR

This means that one or more of your devices is not tracking correctly (or at all). It should be easy to rectify the problem.

All devices must be in view of at least one base station. If not, adjust your configuration so that all devices are visible.

Make sure the base station is fully powered on and synced. The base station lights will be green if everything is on and working properly.

Make sure the controllers are powered on and charged. The LEDs should be green.

Make sure the headset is properly plugged in. The LED should be green.

Verify that all firmware is up to date. If not, consider upgrading it. Follow the onscreen instructions to do so.

Corrupt or missing SteamVR files

Incomplete installation can result in corrupted or missing files. You need to make sure that your installation is fully intact.

Step 1:

Exit SteamVR.

2nd step:

Go to the Steam desktop client.

Step3:

Go to

Library > Tools

, and right click on SteamVR. Select

Properties

.

Step4:

Open them

Local files

Step5:

Select

Check the integrity of the tool cache.

No sound when using Vive headset port

If you're not getting any sound from your headphones, headphones, or speakers, you're not alone. There are a lot of things you can try to get your Vive audio working.

Make sure SteamVR is still open and running.

Check that the earphones are properly plugged in. If you are using the Deluxe Headset, make sure the headset is connected to the headset extension cable and the extension cable connects to the headset itself.

The headset may be on standby. Move him to make sure he wakes up.

In Steam VR, right click and select

Settings > Audio

. In the drop-down menu

Mirror audio to device

, select the desired device.

Make sure the Vive is receiving audio from Steam VR. In Steam VR, right click, select

Settings > Audio

. In the drop-down list

Set playback device

, choose

HTC VIVE

.

If you are using speakers, right click in SteamVR and select

Settings > Audio

. In the drop-down list

Set playback device

, choose

Speakers

Where

USB-Audio Device

.

Windows may not be sending audio to the Vive headset. Right-click the Volume icon on the Windows taskbar, then click

Playback Devices

. Select

HTC-VIVE-0

and set it as the default device. If the Vive does not appear in this list, try selecting

Show deactivated devices

and

Show disconnected devices

. p>

Make sure the Vive's volume slider in the Windows Volume Mixer is up. Right-click the Volume icon in the Windows taskbar and click

Open volume mixer

. Locate the slider to

HTC-VIVE-0

and set its volume to around 50%.

Check the volume of the app or games. Right-click the Volume icon in the Windows taskbar and open the volume mixer. Find the game or program you are running and make sure its volume is set to at least about 50%.

No sound when using a USB headset with the Vive's extra USB port

If you find that no sound is coming out of your headphones and you're plugged into the extra USB port, here's what to do:

Make sure the Vive is receiving audio from Steam VR. In Steam VR, right click and select

Settings > Audio

. From the Set playback device drop-down list, select

HTC VIVE

.

Windows may not be sending audio to the Vive headset. Right-click the Volume icon in the Windows taskbar and select

Playback Devices

. Select

HTC-VIVE-0

and set it as the default device. If the Vive does not appear in this list, try selecting

Show deactivated devices

and

Show disconnected devices

. p>

Sound cuts out when plugged into Vive headphone jack

Some people have had issues with audio cutting out when plugged into the Vive headphone jack. There are a few things to check to bring it back.

Make sure SteamVR is still open and running.

The headset may be in sleep mode. Move him to make sure he wakes up.

To keep audio playing, even when the headphones are in standby, right-click the Volume icon in the Windows taskbar, then select

Reading devices

. Select

2-USB audio device

and set it as the default device. If the Vive does not appear in this list, try selecting

Show deactivated devices

and

Show disconnected devices

. p>

If the above methods do not resolve the issue, try using a USB headset with the Vive's extra USB port.

Static electricity when using headphones

If you get a surprise shock from your Vive while using headphones, it might just be static. This doesn't normally indicate a problem, as a buildup of static or minor static doesn't necessarily mean your Vive is malfunctioning and isn't cause for concern. It can, however, be boring.

Valve notes on its support page that this generally occurs the same way static shock occurs from something like, say, socks on carpet or a ball rubbing on hair.< /p >

Try using anti-static sprays and lotions, and wear natural fiber clothing to reduce static build-up.

Dry environments are particularly susceptible to this, but using a humidifier should be enough to add moisture to the air and prevent any static buildup.

Vive appears as your computer's primary monitor after an upgrade

Many people have found that after upgrading to Windows 10, Vive appears as the main computer monitor, which is not exactly an ideal situation. Luckily, it's very easy to fix. Simply disconnect your headset for the link box and restart your computer. When your computer has finished restarting, reconnect your headset cable to the link box. Everything should be fine now!

Your Vive keeps skipping frames no matter what you try

If this happens with anything you try, it's probably because of the way your computer controls the display. Many settings can cause this, but one of the most common is night mode. Check your computer and make sure that no night mode settings are enabled. Also make sure that you are not running any other type of software that deliberately alters the appearance of your computer screen.

Variable brightness or images that keep going dark

Newer headsets like the Vive Pro 2 may experience issues with their automatic brightness settings. Users may find that the screen changes levels of brightness in an annoying way, or immediately dims when looking in a specific direction, making visibility an issue.

If you find this to be a problem, visit the SteamVR settings. SteamVR recently added a universal brightness slider to control brightness manually. You might also want to see if there are any in-game options to adjust the brightness.

Vive Wireless Adapter Issues

The HTC Vive Wireless Adapter is one of the best upgrades you can make to your VR experience for room-scale gaming, but the experience isn't error-free.

No power to headphones

If you find that your headset won't work or turn on with Vive wireless installed, try these fixes.

Make sure the battery is plugged into the Vive Wireless Adapter via the USB cable.

Make sure the Vive Wireless adapter is plugged into the Vive headset with all three cables.

Make sure the battery is charged. Press the button to check.

Press the button on the battery, then the button on the Vive Wireless Adapter to turn them both on.

If you've done everything above, try running the Vive Wireless connection software again, then launch SteamVR.

Initialization blocked

If you find that the Vive Wireless connection app hangs on “Initializing” or any of its other intermediate steps, there are a few things you can try that should fix the problem.

Be sure not to overextend the wireless transmitter/receiver. The coaxial cable for the wireless transmitter/receiver can be extended an additional 2M, but beyond that you may encounter problems. It's also worth making sure you're using high-quality coaxial cable.

Make sure the Vive wireless adapter is within sight of the wireless transmitter/receiver. 30 feet is about the maximum distance they should be apart.

Try replacing the PCI-Express card with another PCIe slot.

If none of that works, try the following: p>

Step 1:

Search

Device Manager

in the Windows search box and select the corresponding result.

2nd step:

Look for the

Intel Wireless Gigabit VR Adapters

and click the arrow next to it. Right-click

Intel Wireless Gigabit W11100 VR Device

and select

Disable.

Step3:

After that, you can try running the Vive Wireless app again. If all goes as expected, it should now find your headset.

Gray screen while gaming

Check the Vive wireless adapter to make sure it's not too hot. If the adapter exceeds the maximum temperature limits, it will shut down and stop your RV from operating until it cools down enough to restart. You maintain cool temperatures by setting your thermostat to a lower temperature, pointing a portable fan directly at the adapter, or strategically scheduling breaks in use.

Fully charge your batteries. If your batteries are approaching a low charge quickly, your gaming experience will become sluggish and erratic.

Make sure there is a clear, visible path between your headset, receiver, and transmitter.

Despite the problems of connecting VR headsets to your devices, VR headsets are in high demand and gaining popularity by the minute. We are confident that this article provides you with step-by-step guidelines to assess and resolve any future issues you may encounter with HTC Vive.

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