Vuzix STAR 1200XLD User manual

STAR™1200XLD
AR Eyewear System
User Guide

STAR™ 1200XLD INTRODUCTION 6!
Overview 6!
Augmented Reality 7!
System Requirements 7!
Downloads & Updates 8!
Host Device 9!
Primary Components 9!
INSTALLATION & SETUP 11!
Step 1: Charging the Controller 11!
Charging 11!
Step 2: Connecting Accessories 12!
Earphones 12!
Tracker (Windows only) 13!
Camera 13!
Step 3: Connecting the Eyewear & Controller 14!
Mini-B USB 14!
HDMI 14!
Camera USB 15!
Step 4: Fit & Adjustment 15!
Video Display 15!
Audio 16!
Eye Separation Adjustment 16!
Accutilt®Display Angle Adjustment 16!
Nose Bridge 17!
Tether Strap 17!
Step 5: Head Tracker Calibration 17!
Installing VR Manager (Windows only) 18!
Tracker Calibration 18!
CONTROLLER & OSD 21!
Controller Buttons 21!
OSD Display Controls 22!
Display Mode 22!
STAR 1200XLD REFERENCE 25!
STAR Video Eyewear Display 25!
3D Video 25!
Controller 26!
Nose Bridge 26!

Eye-separation Adjustment 27!
Accutilt Adjustment 27!
Camera Removal 28!
Lens Cover Replacement 28!
Lens Removal 28!
Lens Installation 29!
Wrap Noise-Isolating Earphones 29!
Windows - Lost Audio 30!
Tether Strap 30!
Wrap Tracker 31!
USB Charger 31!
MHL Adapter – Micro USB to HDMI® 32!
Connecting a MHL Adapter 33!
DEVELOPER TOOLS AND SUPPORT 36!
Vuzix AR/VR SDK 36!
Acquiring Vuzix VR/AR SDK 37!
CLEANING 38!
SUPPORT SERVICES 39!
WASTE ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT 42!

Read the Safety and Warranty information before proceeding.

Section 1
STAR 1200XLD Introduction
This Introduction section provides exposure to important terms and key aspects of the video
eyewear, helping you to better understand its functions and capabilities.
It provides an overview of what AR is, how AR content is created and the roll of the STAR
1200XLD in delivering compelling AR experiences. The Introduction also explains how this
Users Guide is setup and formatted for fast and easy access to information.

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The STAR 1200XLD extends the Vuzix STAR AR eyewear series with a wide field of view,
adjustable eye-separation, a high-performance 1080p HD camera and HDMI® connectivity.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) enables the STAR 1200XLD to connect to
virtually any audio/video device with HDMI output for improved video quality.
Vuzix’ patented quantum optic see-through technology enables you to see the world directly
through its transparent widescreen video displays. Computer content, such as text, images and
video, is displayed overlaying your real-world view. The STAR 1200XLD provides what appears
to be a 75-inch flat panel screen, as seen from 10 feet (~3m) and is able to display 2D or 3D
video from a Windows computer through virtually any graphics card with HDMI output.
A 1080p high definition UVC (Universal Video Class) compliant video camera is integrated onto
the face of the eyewear. It connects independently through its own USB connection for
maximum flexibility and is recognized by the computer’s operating system as a standard USB
webcam.
Rounding out the STAR 1200XLD’s capabilities is the Wrap Tracker, a 3-DOF (Degrees Of
Freedom) head tracker. When used with supporting software, the Wrap Tracker enhances spacial
awareness by providing head movement and positioning data to applications, thereby enabling
‘see where you look’ graphics.

The STAR 1200XLD is a see-through AR eyewear system that enables the wearer to see the world
directly with computer-generated content overlaid in the transparent displays.
The above image shows a view of a real world desktop with the two animated characters (circled)
overlaid in the users view.
In this AR scene the user is able to see the desktop through the eyewear’s transparent displays.
The HD camera, mounted on the STAR 1200XLD captures the scene, including the AR Markers
laying on the desktop and provides its video feed to the AR application on the user’s host
computer. The AR application recognizes the AR Marker (paddle with a black & white pattern)
and displays the animation content in the STAR 1200XLD displays.
For the user, the AR characters come to life and seemingly perform on the desktop.
Note: The above AR example can be viewed in a video “VuzAR Introduction”, available on the Vuzix
website.
The STAR 1200XLD’s modular design enables maximum flexibility with a variety of host
devices*, used to process and/or serve AR, VR or audio/video content.
* A “host device” is the device used to process and/or serve audio/video content to the eyewear.
Typical examples include a personal computer or mobile device such as a smartphone or
tablet.

STAR 1200XLD Video Display with HDMI Controller:
•Requires an audio/video host device with HDMI output
(i.e.: PC, mobile or other audio/video device with an HDMI port)
•HDMI 1.2 and 1.4a compatible
Note: Some DRM (Digital Rights Management) protected content requires a HDMI 1.4a compatible
host in order to display 3D content.
HD Camera:
•Personal computer supporting UVC (Universal Video Class) compliant camera
•USB 2.0 port (powered)
Head Tracker
•Personal computer running Windows 8, 7, Vista (32 or 64-bit) operating system
•USB 2.0 port (powered)
Other Components & Host Devices:
•All of the STAR 1200XLD’s key components are Windows compatible. Some of the
STAR components may work with other operating systems and host devices. Some
features and capabilities are not supported on non-Windows devices and compatibility is
not guaranteed.
•The video eyewear display has been demonstrated to work with all HDMI compliant
devices tested, but compatibility with all devices and content cannot be guaranteed.
•Some components, such as the camera and tracker, require a powered USB 2.0 port and
compatible host device and operating system. In some cases, these components may
require additional drivers, not provided by Vuzix, or support within the target
application.
•The STAR 1200XLD is supports audio and video display with MHL devices equipped
with an MHL adapter (not included). MHL connections do not support the use of the
STAR’s camera or tracker and require a continuous power connection to the MHL
adapter.
Vuzix provides online access to STAR 1200XLD software, documentation and updates.
•To download the complete set of software and documentation for this product, go to:
www.vuzix.com/DD

•To download individual files and/or updates, go to: www.vuzix.com/downloads
The term “Host Device” is used throughout this User Guide. It refers to the device providing an
audio/video feed to the eyewear. Many AR applications use a Windows PC as their host device
but content can also be served from a variety of other HDMI equipped host devices including
mobile phones, tablet, Blu-ray players or set-top entertainment and gaming systems.
AR processing requires a host device able to accept the AR camera feed, process the data and send
the content out to the STAR eyewear through the host device’s HDMI port.
Note: The STAR’s camera and tracker components are not compatible with HDMI equipped host
devices that do not provide compatible data input ports and/or drivers.
1. 1080p HD camera
2. STAR 1200XLD video eyewear with Controller
3. Controller
4. Wrap Tracker
5. Earphone and noise isolation rings
1 2 3 4 5

Section 2
STAR 1200XLD Installation
Though the STAR 1200XLD installation and setup is fast and easy, there are specific
requirements. A Quick Start Guide is provided for those very familiar with hardware and
accessory installations but for most people, these more complete instructions are more
appropriate.

These instructions lead you through the installation and connection of a STAR 1200XLD AR
eyewear system.
The most common installation configuration for the STAR AR eyewear line of products is with a
Windows based personal computer. These installation instructions are designed to reflect that
with additional notes and comments highlighting known variances when used with alternate host
devices.
Tip: Components and processes specific to Windows only are noted and may be skipped over.
The STAR 1200XLD connects to a host device, such as a HDMI equipped computer,
through the Controller. The Controller provides an interface to the host device, provides
video and data processing and power for the eyewear.
Power is provided through a rechargeable lithium-ion battery in the Controller. The
battery can be charged using a mini-B USB cable connected a powered USB port or a
wall adapter, such as the one provide.
Prior to initial use the Controller’s battery must be charged for a minimum of four (4)
hours using the provided USB charger. During this charge cycle, no other USB devices
should be connected to the charger.

A variety of electrical plug adapters are provided, changeable by pressing the tab in the
bottom corner of the charger.
!Connect the Controller to the USB charger using the “mini-B” USB cable provided.
!Allow the Controller to charge for a minimum of 4 hours for its first charge.
Tip: Once charged, the Controller can power the STAR AR eyewear for a period of time without a
USB connection. For continuous use connect the Controller to the USB charger.
!Plug the stereo earphones into the jacks above each of the eyewear displays.
The noise-isolating earphones are not required for the proper operation of the eyewear.
Unplug the earphones if you prefer to use an alternate speaker system.
Note: Be sure to adjust the volume to a safe and comfortable level before inserting the earphones
into your ears. The volume is controlled through the “+” (plus) and “–” (minus) buttons on the
Controller.
Note: When you connect your STAR system to a Windows based computer Windows, it will detect a
new USB speaker system and automatically configure your computer to output sound to the
Wrap earphones.

The Wrap Tracker is an optional use accessory that is not required for the proper
operation of the display module and other components.
!Plug the Tracker into its port, above and to the right of the right-eye display.
The Tracker works on a Windows based computer running supporting applications.
Data from the tracker is transmitted to your computer through the USB connection on
the Controller.
Note: Although the Tracker connector may look similar to a USB Mini-B connector, it is not.
Attempting to connect as a USB device may damage the eyewear and connecting the tracker
directly to a USB port may damage the tracker.
To function correctly, the tracker must be calibrated using the VR Manager software
package, included with your STAR 1200XLD. See the VR Manager section of this User
Guide for calibration details.
Tip: Additional drivers and resources for alternate host devices may become available over time.
Periodically check the Vuzix website for additional information.
Your STAR 1200XLD includes a UVC (plug ‘n play USB) compliant 1080p HD
camera.
Tip: UVC compliant video cameras are meant to provide basic functionality on Windows, Mac and
Linux computer systems, without the need for additional drivers.
The STAR camera system operates independent of the rest of the eyewear components
and connects to the host computer system through it own USB 2.0 connection.
!Connect the Camera’s USB connector to a USB 2.0 port on your computer.
Note: If you are connecting to a computer already equipped with a USB camera, you may need to
configure your host device to use the STAR’s camera.
Note: The STAR’s camera will be recognized by Windows as a “Logitech® C920” webcam.

The Controller provides power for the STAR eyewear and an interface to your host
device.
One end of the Controller is hardwired to your eyewear and the other end has two
connectors; a mini-B USB and a HDMI connector. The face of the Controller contains
four control buttons and an indicator light.
Connect the mini-B USB connector to a power source (computer or USB wall adapter)
to power and charge the Controller.
A separate USB connection is provided for the camera, covered later in these instructions.
!Connect the Controller’s USB connector to a USB 2.0 port on your computer or other host
device.
Note: If a USB 2.0 hub is being used it must be a powered. Unpowered USB hubs do not provide the
amount of power required to operate the STAR components and/or charge its battery.
Tip: A USB extension cable can be used as long as it is meets USB 2.0 specifications. Some lower
quality USB extension cables are know to adversely affect performance.
The STAR 1200XLD supports HDMI 1.4a and connects to your host device using the
provided HDMI cable or an alternate HDMI high-speed cable.
!Connect the Controller to your host device using the provided HDMI cable.
Tip: Additional adapters or cables may be required for your installation. Be aware that some HDMI
cables may not provide an adequate level of performance. Use only high-speed HDMI cables.
High-speed cables with Ethernet can be used but the Ethernet capabilities are not used by the
eyewear.
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The USB cable, connected directly to the camera, goes to any available USB 2.0 port on
your host device. A powered hub can also be used if sufficient free USB ports are not
available.
Note: Unpowered hubs and extension cables that are not USB 2.0 compatible, will not work and may
adversely affect performance.
Note: The STAR’s audio and video display are compatible with MHL equipped devices when used
with an MHL to HDMI adapter. The camera and tracker are not supported with MHL devices.
See the Reference section of this User Guide for additional information.
At this point your eyewear, camera and other components will be operational but require
adjustment or calibration for optimal performance.
The STAR 1200XLD generally does not require additional configuration for displaying
standard 2D video. When the eyewear is turned on, it will self configure to mirror your
desktop display.
!Press the “Power & Menu” button to turn the eyewear on.
!Press and hold the “Power & Menu” button to turn the eyewear off.
!Double press the “Power & Menu” button to display the OSD (On Screen Display)
In most cases, Windows will automatically configure your video display settings. It will
choose a display resolution that is mutually compatible, both for the eyewear as well as
your computer monitor. It will also select “Duplicate these displays” from the “Multiple
displays” drop list.
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The STAR 1200XLD is equipped with removable stereo earphones. The earphones come
equipped with medium sized noise-isolation rings. Small and large rings are also provided
for slip-off, slip-on size adjustment.
!Press the plus and minus buttons on the Controller to adjust the earphone volume.
Note: Do not put the earphones into your ears until the audio volume has been set to a moderate and
safe level.
Tip: If an alternate audio system is used, volume control is provided through that system’s controls.
IPD (InterPupillary Distance) is the distance separating your pupils. This distance varies
from one person to the next and, if your eyes are not correctly aligned with the displays,
the image in a misaligned display may appear dark or disappear entirely.
Each display adjusts independently by sliding its display screen left or right.
!Close one eye and slide the display box for the other eye to the left or right to provide the
clearest and brightest image.
!Repeat the process to adjust the other eye’s display.
The angle of your displays can also impact their clarity. Vuzix eyewear is equipped with a
patented Accutilt system that enables the display to be to be tilted up or down by up to
15 degrees.
!Adjust the display angle, by rotating the up/down tilt of display module, to achieve the
best quality image.

The nose bridge assembly is adjustable. It can be slid in or out to adjust its length and the
nose pad wires can be bent for adjustment, like the pads on many prescription eyeglasses.
!Slide the nose pad assembly in or out to adjust the display height of your eyewear. The
eyewear displays should be aligned to the same level as your eyes.
!Bend the nose pad wires to adjust the pad separation and angle for a comfortable fit.
Tip: If the stem pulls completely out, simply slip it back into its slot taking care that the serrated strip
faces toward you – away from the eyewear display assembly.
Note: Just as is the case with prescription eyeglasses, the wire arms of the nose pads are designed
for adjustment for a single user. Excessive and/or frequent adjustment or sharp bends in the
wire arms may weaken and break them. Replacement nose pads are available from Vuzix.
For active applications, a tether strap can be used to provide a more secure fit.
!Attached each end of the tether strap to the eyelets on the eyewear temples.
!Adjust the strap synch for a comfortable and secure fit.
The final adjustment is the calibration of the head tracker for use on a Windows based
host device.
Tip: If you are not using a Windows based host device or are not using the head tracker, you can
bypass this step.
Tracker calibration requires the installation of the Windows application, VR Manager.
This software application is included in the STAR 1200XLD software and
documentation package downloaded from www.vuxiz.com/dd.

VR Manager is a calibration and VR enablement software, compatible with Windows 8,
7, Vista and XP. Its installation is required to calibrate and enable the Wrap Tracker.
Tip: VR Manager is a 32-bit application that will run on 64-bit versions of Windows.
!Open the “VR Manager Installer” folder from the STAR 1200XLD Software &
Documentation Package.
!Run the “setup.exe” program and follow the on-screen instructions to install VR Manager.
The VR Manager install program will lead you step-by-step through the installation
process. The process will vary from one version of the Windows to the next and you may
be requested to provide permissions during the install. Accept the default choices
provided.
The Wrap Tracker utilizes a series of nine sensors (3-accelerometers, 3-gyros and 3-
magnetic field sensors) to determine your direction and angle of view and head
movement (yaw, pitch and roll). This information can be provided to a host Windows
computer system and utilized by tracker-enabled software.
Tip: Vuzix provides a free SDK to assist in enabling tracker support in software applications. Go to
“www.vuzix.com/developer” for additional information.
The gyros and magnetic field sensors require calibration. The gyros generally do not
require re-calibration (zeroing) unless the tracker is connected to a different computer.
The magnetic field sensors require calibration whenever your magnetic environment
changes. Nearby metal and electrical objects as well as the earth’s natural magnetic fields
affect magnetic sensors and the calibration process helps to minimize their influence.
Tip: Take note that any nearby magnetic interference will have an adverse effect on your head
tracker’s performance. Hidden objects, like a base speaker under your desk, can sometimes be
relocated for increased accuracy and reliability.
To calibrate the tracker on your STAR eyewear:
!Connect your tracker equipped STAR 1200XLD to your computer, with the VR Manager
software installed.
!Launch the VR Manager application.
If this is the first time starting VR Manager with a tracker attached, a Zero Gyros screen
will appear.

!Place the Wrap eyewear flat on your desk facing your computer.
Note: Do not move the eyewear while the gyro zeroing process is being performed.
!Follow the on-screen instructions to zero the tracker’s gyros.
Once the gyros are zeroed, VR Manager will present you with its Calibration screen.
!Press the “Begin Calibration” button.
Tip: For the most accurate calibration, minimize earphone movement (or remove them) and position
your eyewear as close as possible to the position it will be in when used, upright and facing
your desktop computer monitor.
!Rotate your eyewear fully through each of the three axes.
This process captures tracker data through its full range of movement. The indicator bars
will move while new data is being received and stop progressing when no additional new
data is received. The indicator bars will not fill completely – this is normal.
!When the indicator bars stop moving, press the “Lock Calibration” button.
Pitch RollYaw

!Put on your eyewear positioning them as they will normally be used – upright, at eye level
and facing your computer – and then press the “Set Zero” button.
The Set Zero button establishes the Tracker’s home or centered position. As you move
your head you will see the indicators and values in the Yaw, Pitch and Roll indicators
reflect movement relative to that centered position.