Razer OSVR HDK 2
The Razer OSVR HDK 2 (Hacker Developer Kit 2) was an open-source virtual reality head-mounted display developed through the OSVR (Open Source Virtual Reality) initiative, led by Razer and Sensics. Released in July 2016, the HDK 2 represented a significant upgrade over the HDK 1.4, featuring dual OLED displays with the same resolution as the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift, custom SLR-grade optics, and 90Hz low-persistence displays.[1]
| Razer OSVR HDK 2 | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | PC VR (Open Source) |
| Platform | PC, SteamVR |
| Creator | Razer, OSVR |
| Price | $399 |
| Website | http://www.osvr.org |
| System | |
| CPU | Intel i5-4590 (minimum) |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 970 (minimum) |
| Storage | |
| Display | |
| Display | 2 x OLED (dual display) |
| Resolution | 2160 x 1200 (1080 x 1200 per eye) |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | 6DoF (IR positional tracking at 100Hz) |
| Audio | |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | USB, HDMI |
| Ports | HDMI, USB |
| Device | |
| Sensors | Gyroscope, accelerometer, IR LEDs |
| Input | Compatible with various controllers |
History and Development
Evolution from HDK 1.4
While the HDK 1 was designed to provide essential VR technology for development, the HDK 2 was engineered to deliver high-end visual experiences competitive with premium consumer headsets.[2]
Open Source Commitment
Like its predecessor, the HDK 2 maintained full open-source principles:
- Software SDK: Apache 2.0 license
- Hardware MDK: Community development encouraged
- No Licensing Fees: Hardware developers could interface freely
Industry Support
The HDK 2 launched with over 320 official OSVR supporters including major companies like Intel, NVIDIA, Acer, Ubisoft, and Gearbox Software.
Design and Hardware
Display System
The HDK 2 featured a significant display upgrade:
- Configuration: Dual OLED RGB displays
- Total Resolution: 2160 x 1200 (1080 x 1200 per eye)
- Refresh Rate: 90 Hz with low persistence
- Technology: IQE (Image Quality Enhancer) for reduced screen door effect
The dual-display system matched the specifications of the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift.
Field of View
The HDK 2 offered a 110-degree field of view, providing improved immersion over the HDK 1.4.
Optical System
Custom designed SLR-grade lenses provided:
- Clearer, more vibrant images
- Reduced optical distortion
- Adjustable focus for vision correction
Diopter Adjustment
- Range: +450 to -200 degrees
- Adjustment Method: Dials on headset bottom
- Purpose: Brings lenses closer or further depending on vision needs
Physical Design
The HDK 2 used the same housing as the HDK 1.4:
- Body: Injection molded flat-black plastic
- Faceplate: Removable IR LED array
- Facial Interface: Pliable rubber with soft foam gasket
Note: No mechanical IPD adjustment included.
Tracking System
6DoF Positional Tracking
- IR Faceplate: v1.4 IR faceplate with LED array
- External Camera: IR camera operating at 100 Hz
- Tracking Type: Full 6 degrees of freedom
Software Compatibility
Supported Platforms
- Native OSVR experiences
- SteamVR content (HTC Vive games)
- WebVR applications
- 360 video and media players
Not Supported
Oculus-based content was not compatible with the HDK 2.
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel i5-4590 or equivalent |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 970 or equivalent |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| OS | Windows |
Comparison: HDK 1.4 vs HDK 2
| Feature | HDK 1.4 | HDK 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD | OLED (dual) |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 2160 x 1200 |
| Per Eye | 960 x 1080 | 1080 x 1200 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 90 Hz |
| FOV | 100° | 110° |
| Optics | Standard | SLR-grade |
| Low Persistence | No | Yes |
| Price | $299 | $399 |
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display Type | 2 x OLED RGB |
| Resolution | 2160 x 1200 (1080 x 1200 per eye) |
| Refresh Rate | 90 Hz (low persistence) |
| Field of View | 110° |
| Optics | Custom SLR-grade |
| Tracking | 6DoF (IR at 100Hz) |
| Focus Adjustment | +450 to -200 diopters |
| IQE Technology | Yes (reduced screen door) |
| Price | $399 |
| License | Open Source |
Reception
The HDK 2 received attention for offering competitive specifications at a lower price point than the Rift and Vive, though reviewers noted the lack of bundled controllers and the early-stage nature of the OSVR software ecosystem as limitations.[3]
See Also
References
- ↑ "OSVR Launches the HDK 2 - An Open Source 2160 x 1200 Dual Display VR Headset". Razer Newsroom. https://press.razer.com/product-news/osvr-launches-the-hdk-2-an-open-source-2160-x-1200-dual-display-vr-headset-in-the-asia-pacific-region/.
- ↑ "OSVR Hacker Developer Kit 2 Review". Tom's Hardware. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/osvr-hdk2-vr-headset,5084.html.
- ↑ "Hands on: Razer OSVR HDK 2 review". TechRadar. https://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/gaming-accessories/razer-osvr-hdk-2-1277810/review.