Most VR games only track head and hand movements, which means a large part of your body is left out. Adding full body tracking, however, enables your avatar to mimic your leg, torso, and foot movements.
This guide will cover everything you need to know to set up full body tracking on your Meta Quest headsets, from using built-in features with Virtual Desktop to external tracking options for those seeking maximum accuracy.
1. Using Virtual Desktop
One of the easiest ways to experience full body tracking on Quest devices is through Virtual Desktop, which provides a built-in tracking feature. This software allows the headset to track movements by emulating SteamVR Vive trackers, offering a basic level of body tracking that is ideal for casual VR experiences. Here's how Virtual Desktop's tracking differs based on your device model.
Quest 3 - Inside-Out Body Tracking (IOBT)
Quest 3 features Inside-Out Body Tracking (IOBT), utilizing its side-facing cameras for basic upper body tracking. This setup captures movements from the elbows, torso, and some other upper body parts, making avatar motion in VR look more natural.
- Strengths: Offers reliable tracking for the upper body.
- Limitations: Lower body movements are less accurately tracked due to the lack of dedicated foot tracking.
Quest 2 and Quest Pro - Inverse Kinematics (IK)
For Quest 2 and Quest Pro, body tracking relies on inverse kinematics, a method where body positioning is estimated based on the location of the head and hands. While it doesn’t offer the same precision as the Quest 3's tracking, it still provides a level of realism in avatar movement that enhances social VR interactions.
- Strengths: Affordable tracking solution for basic body movement.
- Limitations: Less precise than IOBT and doesn’t track detailed lower body movements.
Steps to Set Up Virtual Desktop for Body Tracking
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Purchase and Install Virtual Desktop:
- Download Virtual Desktop from the Meta Quest Store.
- Install Virtual Desktop Streamer on your PC.
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Configure Virtual Desktop Settings:
- Open Virtual Desktop and access settings using the round button on the left Quest controller.
- Go to the "Streaming" section.
- Enable "Forward tracking data to PC" and choose "Emulate SteamVR Vive trackers."
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Launch VR Applications:
- Start VRChat or other compatible apps, and you should see your upper body movements reflected in VR.
2. Choosing External Trackers
For users who seek higher precision, external trackers are an option that provides more comprehensive and accurate body tracking. These trackers work with SteamVR and require base stations to capture and relay your movements. Let’s look at some popular external trackers compatible with Quest devices.
1. HTC Vive Trackers
These trackers are ideal for VR applications that demand high-quality body tracking, such as professional training simulations, complex VR games, and immersive social experiences. Vive Trackers are known for their durability and consistent performance, making them a popular choice for serious VR users. However, they are on the pricier side and require base stations for effective tracking.
2. Tundra Trackers
Tundra Trackers are praised for being smaller and lighter, which can make them more comfortable to wear for extended VR sessions. They also come with an impressive battery life, allowing users to engage in longer VR experiences without interruption. Like Vive Trackers, Tundra Trackers require SteamVR base stations for tracking, which adds to the overall cost.
3. AXIS Trackers
These trackers do not require base stations, which can simplify the setup process and make them more convenient to use in various spaces. AXIS Trackers are easy to set up and offer freedom from wired connections, but they may occasionally experience position drift, meaning that they require recalibration from time to time.
4. SlimeVR Trackers
SlimeVR is a more budget-friendly option for those comfortable with a DIY approach. It’s an open-source, IMU-based tracking system that’s available both as a pre-built kit and as a DIY project. SlimeVR does not require base stations, which makes it easy to integrate into a variety of setups. However, it does have limitations in precision due to its IMU-based technology, and users might need to recalibrate it often.
3. Setting Up External Trackers With Base Stations
Once you’ve chosen an external tracking system, you’ll need to set it up with base stations. This setup provides consistent tracking although it can be more complex than using Virtual Desktop.
Essential Setup For Base Stations
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Mount the Base Stations:
- Place two base stations in opposite corners of your play area, about 6.5 feet high.
- Angle them downwards at 30–45 degrees to cover the space effectively.
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Power On and Configure Channels:
- Ensure each base station is on, with a green status light.
- In SteamVR, navigate to Devices > Base Station Settingsto set different channels for each station.
Pairing And Updating Trackers
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Pair Trackers with SteamVR:
- Turn on each tracker by pressing its button until it starts blinking.
- In SteamVR, select "Pair Tracker" and follow prompts to connect each one.
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Update Firmware for Trackers and Base Stations:
- Connect each tracker to your PC via USB.
- In SteamVR, go to Devicesand check for updates under Update Device.
Assign Trackers To Body Parts
Assign each tracker to a specific body part (e.g., foot, waist) within SteamVR:
- Right-click on the tracker, select Manage Trackers, and use the dropdown to assign each tracker.
4. Calibrating Trackers
Calibration ensures that virtual movements match your real-life movements as accurately as possible. For setup with external trackers, here’s a detailed process:
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Download OpenVR Space Calibrator:
- Install this free app to sync trackers with your Quest headset.
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Run Calibration:
- Open the app and select the Quest controller on the left and a tracker on the right.
- Use the “Slow” calibration setting for accuracy and move your hand in a figure-eight pattern.
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In-Game Calibration:
- Launch your game (e.g., VRChat) and follow the in-game prompts, often involving a T-pose to align trackers.
Calibration is essential to prevent “drift,” where your VR avatar slowly shifts from your real-world position over time. Regular recalibration may be needed if you notice misalignment.
5. Troubleshooting Common Full Body Tracking Issues
Even with the best setup, tracking issues may occasionally arise. Here are some common issues and their solutions.
Inaccurate Tracking
Recalibrate using OpenVR Space Calibrator, adjust tracker positions, and ensure good lighting in the play area.
Position Drift
Recalibrate more frequently, check for magnetic interference, and make sure base stations are securely mounted.
Connectivity Issues
Use a powered USB hub, ensure trackers are fully charged, and check for Wi-Fi interference.
Performance Issues
Close background applications, ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection, and lower in-game graphics settings if experiencing lag.
Recommended Meta Quest Accessories:
1. MaeckerVR Quest 3/3S Extended Handles2. MaeckerVR Quest 3/3S Direct-Charge Controller Grips
3. MaeckerVR Quest 3 Battery Head Strap
Conclusion
Setting up full body tracking on Quest 2 and Quest 3 can vastly improve your VR experience, making interactions feel more natural and immersive. Virtual Desktop provides a simple entry point for basic body tracking, while external trackers offer enhanced precision for users seeking greater accuracy.
