So you’ve finally earned your PlayStation VR set and can’t wait to dive into another dimension of gaming? Something not working as it should? Hang on, because this guide will walk you through the process of troubleshooting the most common issues on the PlayStation VR.
Let’s dive in.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: Quick Fixes
Let’s start with the common solutions that many of us tend to overlook.
Restart the system
Restarting your console only takes a few minutes, but it could save you from a lot of trouble trying to find a solution to a small annoying problem. It gives you a clean slate to work on that could solve your problem.
While you are at it, be sure to also restart your VR set so that it can be a real clean slate. This is done by tapping the power button on the VR cable next to the mute button.
Check your cables
When compared to simple smartphone VR sets, the PSVR has a relatively larger number of cables. As a result, it’s common to find some of them forgotten. When a cable isn’t plugged all the way in, there’s bound to be a problem. This is usually the problem for most problems related with audio and video quality.
Update your PlayStation VR
A good number of problems could be caused by having outdated software. Go to Settings>Devices>PlayStation VR>PlayStation VR Device Software and select Update PlayStation VR Device Software. The console will check if there is an updated version of the software and download it for you. The VR headset doesn’t have to be connected for this.
Take a break
Despite the excitement to keep playing, it helps to take a short break from the VR every once in a while. Don’t push your body too hard.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: Video Problems
Video problems are quite common, but they are also easy to address. If you see blurry images, take the following steps.
Check that the headset is properly fitted
The headset used on the PlayStation VR is not like what you’ll find on other VR sets like the Google Daydream. This unique design might be hard to fit if you are used to the normal design where the display is strapped to the back of your head.
When adjusting, make sure that the visor is flush to your face and that the headset is securely held. Feel free to look into the visor to ensure that you get the best view.
Clean the headset
Dirt on the lenses could also be the reason behind blurred vision. Any foreign item on the lenses will have an effect on the quality of the video so pay close attention to them. Use a lint-free cloth to gently wipe them until all the smudges and foreign materials have been removed.
Take note of boundaries
The effectiveness of your VR experience will depend on the system’s tracking of your movements. Sony gives a reliable distance of six feet after which you might start experiencing problems. Luckily, there is a floating message that will be displayed when you exceed this distance. For best results, move all the way back until you start seeing the floating message then take a step forward.
Adjust Tracking Lights
Tracking issues could also cause problems with the image. To fix them, recalibrate the system on the menu by going to Settings>Devices>PlayStation VR>Adjust Tracking Lights. Here, you’ll be able to adjust the lights in three procedures.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: Screen-Mirroring Problems
There are those few times when your head-mounted display shows an image but your TV doesn’t. Here’s what you should check:
- Check your HDCP: HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection and it keeps content from copying during certain transfers. Some games malfunction when this mode is enables so try disabling it and see if it fixes the problem. Go to Settings>System and uncheck the checkbox next to Enable HDCP.
- Check your HDMI cables: A number of users have received the PlayStation VR with low quality HDMI cables that could cause screen mirroring problems. Replace each cable with a HDMI cable that didn’t come with the set. If you get an image, you’ll know that it was a HDMI cable.
- Remove the extension cable and plug the head-mounted display directly. If this solves, the problem, you’ll need a new extension cable.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: Poor Head and Controller Tracking
The whole point of virtual reality is to interact with the virtual environment as if you were there in real life. It’s annoying if your movement on the real world isn’t translated accurately to the virtual world. Here’s what to do:
- Play in a dark room. If the PlayStation camera detects other LED light sources in the room, they will throw off the tracking because it won’t tell where you are.
- Make sure that the camera is placed on a dark surface that does not reflect any light from the room.
- Remove any bright lights pointing towards the head-mounted display.
- Make sure that the controllers are fully charged and that nothing is obstructing the glowing LED light.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: USB Error
A USB error is also common with the PSVR. Two things could be causing this:
- There is a USB cable that is not plugged all the way in
- A USB cable is plugged in the wrong port
Check all connections to make sure that you have everything fully plugged in and in the right place and the error with disappear. If it still persists and everything is in the right spot, check your USB cables. One of them could be broken.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: 3D Audio Problems
You will miss out big time if you try playing without 3D audio. To fix problems with this, first make sure that you are using the ear buds that came with the system. The good news is that they deliver good quality sound and they are designed to tell you the correct ear for each ear bud thanks to cord length restrictions. As a result, there’s nothing to lose when you use them.
If this doesn’t solve the problem, check connections and make sure that everything is fully plugged in. This should solve most audio problems. If you are trying to connect your own pair of headphones that is not working, the problem could be with the compatibility of the headphones with your PSVR.
Troubleshooting PlayStation VR: Nausea
Get comfortable. If you feel dizzy when standing, it helps to play when seated. This could make a huge difference.
If you have been playing for long, take a break from it all and catch some air. The discomfort could be your body’s way of seeking a break.
If after exhausting all the options listed above you still have problems, contact Sony support for assistance.