If you've been eagerly waiting to use your PlayStation VR2 headset with a gaming PC to explore the vast library of SteamVR games, your options have been limited until now. Fortunately, Sony has released a $60 adapter that allows PS VR2 owners to connect their headset to a modern gaming PC, provided the PC meets the necessary specifications. However, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC isn't as straightforward as just plugging in the adapter. Despite being promoted as a plug-and-play device, there are some key features missing that may require additional setup, depending on your PC's configuration.
How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter
Before you begin the step-by-step setup process, ensure you have all the necessary components. The PS VR2, when used with the adapter, is fully compatible with most SteamVR games. However, you'll need to make sure your PC has Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a spare DisplayPort 1.4 cable, a nearby AC power outlet, and both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. Additionally, the two Sense controllers included with the PS VR2 charge via USB-C, so you'll need two USB-C charging ports and cables. Alternatively, you can purchase Sony's $50 Sense controller charging station for a more convenient charging solution.
What You'll Need
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PlayStation VR2 PC Adapter
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First, verify that your gaming PC is compatible with the PlayStation VR2 headset. You can check this by visiting Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page. If your system meets the requirements, here's what you'll need:
- A PlayStation VR2 headset
- The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (including AC adapter and male USB 3.0 Type-A cable)
- A DisplayPort 1.4 cable (sold separately)
- A free USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC (Sony advises against using an extension cable or external hub, though a powered external hub worked well in our tests)
- Bluetooth 4.0 capability on your PC (either built-in or via an external Bluetooth adapter)
- Steam and SteamVR installed on your PC
- The PlayStation VR2 app installed inside Steam
How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you have all the required components, follow these steps to connect your PS VR2 to your PC:
- Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app:
- Download and install the Steam Windows client if you haven't already.
- Open Steam and install the SteamVR app.
- Download and install the PlayStation VR2 app.
- Set up your PC's Bluetooth and pair your Sense Controllers:
- From your PC's start menu, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > toggle Bluetooth to "On."
- On each Sense controller, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button until the white light starts blinking.
- On your PC's Bluetooth & devices page, click the "Add device" button, select "Bluetooth," and search for and connect the PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller (L) and (R).
- If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, use a compatible Bluetooth adapter like the Asus BT500. If using an external adapter alongside an internal Bluetooth radio, disable the internal radio in Device Manager.
- Set up the adapter and connect it to your PC:
- Plug the PS VR2 adapter into an unused USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC.
- Use a DisplayPort 1.4 cable to connect the adapter to a free DisplayPort slot on your GPU.
- Connect the AC power adapter to the PS VR2 adapter's DC IN connector and plug it into an electrical outlet.
- Connect the PlayStation VR2 to the adapter via the USB-C port on the front of the adapter.
- Turn off Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling (optional):
- If using a newer GPU like a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for a stable VR experience: Navigate to Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Default graphics settings and turn off the "Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling" slider. Restart your PC.
- Launch the PlayStation VR2 App and SteamVR:
- Boot up the PlayStation VR2 headset by holding down the central button until it vibrates.
- Turn on SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime.
- Open the PlayStation VR2 app on your desktop to update your Sense controllers' firmware and set up your PS VR2 headset, including your Play Area and other preferences.
- Follow the on-screen and in-headset instructions to set up your IPD, display distance, and adjust the headset's fit.
Once the setup is complete, you're ready to dive into the world of SteamVR games!
Can You Connect to PC Without an Adapter?
Currently, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC without the adapter is not straightforward. The short answer is no, you need the adapter. However, some GPUs released around 2018 that include a USB-C port and VirtualLink feature have reportedly allowed a direct connection to the PS VR2, provided the PlayStation VR2 app is installed. This bypasses the need for the adapter, according to a report on Road to VR.
