The Vis3r NxtVR project has been in development for some time now, but like everyone and everything, it has suffered from the Covid-19 virus lockdown.
We spent ages searching for the right hardware to build the sensor around, but it was surprisingly hard going. When the Raspberry Pi Pico was released, it was immediately obvious that it was absolutely perfect for what we needed, and that our search was over. Our goal has always been to create an open source VR headset that absolutely anyone could build themselves, from scratch, quickly, easily and affordably. All it should require was a bare minimum of hardware skills, a bare minimum of software skills, and access to a 3D Printer. The Raspberry Pi Pico gives everyone this chance, and forms the heart of the NxtVR VR Headset.
The 3D models can be found in this repository. We have provided STL files, so anyone can immediately start printing. We have also provided the original CAD files in various popular formats, so the more adventurous among you can do whatever you need to them. Whilst it's impossible to say how long it will take to print it out on your printer, there are two main components that will take 5 to 10 hours each, along with a few other pieces that may take an hour or two each and a few fittings that will take minutes.
- Raspberry Pi Pico
- GY-521 MPU-6050 Sensor,
⚠️ Usually available between €1 and €3 everywhere online - 5.5 inch 25601440 2K LCD Screen with an HDMI to MIPI board, available from Aliexpress
⚠️ The price will vary hugely! It is usually best to ask for advice on our Discord before you buy one, but aim for less than €55 - 2 Biconvex lenses with a focal length of 45mm and a 37mm diameter. Available from Aliexpress, usually for between €1 and €3 per pair
- Face foam (10mm wide), usually between €1 and €4 from Aliexpress
- USB splitter
⚠️ Usually between €1 and €4 from Aliexpress - 4 DuPont cables with at least 1 Female end (~10cm)
- 3D models
- HDMI cable (at least 3m or longer, try Amazon basics rather than cheap ones)
- USB cable (at least 3m or longer, try Amazon basics rather than cheap ones)
- Code from Vis3r/NxtVR Pico repo
- The OpenHMD code from here
- Steam + SteamVR
Detailed instructions and parts lists can be found on the Vis3r Wiki at:
https://wiki.vis3r.org/index.php/Documentation
We would love to hear about your experiences building the headset or we can help if you have any questions.
The best place to chat with us or ask for help is on our Discord!
Made with ❤️