If you’re excited to try out your new PS VR but have no idea how to set it up, don’t worry. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
First, unpack all the contents of your PS VR bundle and make sure that your PS4 console is turned off. Take your PlayStation camera and plug it into the rear of your PS4 console. Then, place the camera where you want it in your entertainment unit.
Next, find the HDMI cable running from your PS4 to your TV and unplug it from the TV. Run this cable into the HDMI input port of the PSVR processor unit (the little black box that came with your PS VR headset). Then, plug the additional HDMI cable included with the PSVR unit (or another HDMI cable if you need one of a different length) into the HDMI out slot on the processor box and into your TV’s HDMI input.
After that, find the USB cable that came with your PS VR unit and plug the A-end into one of the two USB ports on the front of your PlayStation 4. Then, insert the B-end into the processor unit. Find the PSVR processor power supply and plug it into a wall outlet. Then, connect the other end to the processor box.
Once all your rear cables are connected, slide the cover on the right side of the processor back to reveal the headset connector ports. Connect the PS VR headset cable into the extension, and then connect that to the ports in the front of the processor box. You’ll notice PlayStation symbols on each of the two connectors on the headset and the extension cables. Line them up to ensure a correct connection.
After inserting the cables into the processor unit, slide the cover back into place over the cables. Once you’ve connected all the cables and wires, power on your PS VR headset using the on/off button on the built-in remote along the length of the cord. If everything is set up correctly, the lights in the headset will glow blue.
The first time you power on the headset, you’ll be prompted to update your PlayStation 4. While it updates, this is a good time to clear and set up your VR play area (roughly a 6 by 10 foot square a few feet from your entertainment center). Since the PS VR only uses one front-facing camera for motion tracking, you won’t be moving around too much, meaning you’ll probably be safe just putting a chair in front of your PS camera. Keep in mind, though, that the camera requires you to be around 5 feet away; otherwise, the motion tracking may not work.
When the update completes, it’s time to don your PS VR headset. To put the headset on, first pull the visor away from the headband using the button on the bottom. Then, press the button on the rear of the headband and expand it by pulling back while gripping the foam handle on the top of the visor. Once the unit is comfortably on your head, slide the visor back into place and tighten the headband by reaching back and turning the dial at the back of your head until it’s snug.
Once the visor and headband are comfortably secured, follow the on-screen prompts to calibrate your PSVR, then enjoy all that PlayStation’s virtual reality experience has to offer. For much more on the PSVR, you’re already in the right place here at IGN.