Razer OSVR HDK 1.4
| Razer OSVR HDK 1.4 | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Virtual Reality |
| Type | Head-mounted display |
| Subtype | PC VR (Open Source) |
| Platform | PC, SteamVR |
| Creator | Razer, OSVR |
| Price | $299 |
| Website | http://www.osvr.org |
| System | |
| CPU | Intel i5-4590 (minimum) |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 970 (minimum) |
| Storage | |
| Display | |
| Display | 1 x LCD |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (960 x 1080 per eye) |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Tracking | 6DoF (IR positional tracking) |
| Audio | |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | USB, HDMI |
| Ports | HDMI, USB |
| Device | |
| Sensors | Gyroscope, accelerometer, IR LEDs |
| Input | Compatible with various controllers |
The Razer OSVR HDK 1.4 (Hacker Developer Kit) 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 2015, the HDK 1.4 was designed as a development platform for VR software and hardware developers, featuring an open-source design that could be freely modified and improved.[1]
History and Development
OSVR Initiative
OSVR (Open Source Virtual Reality) is an open-source software platform designed to drive innovation and diversity in VR by allowing different brands of VR hardware to connect with each other. The initiative allows hardware developers to interface their devices with others in the VR industry without licensing fees.
Open Source Philosophy
The HDK 1.4 was designed with a modular, hackable approach:
- Software SDK: Licensed under Apache 2.0
- Hardware MDK: Modeled after Google's Project Ara Module Development Kit
- Community Development: Derivative works and modifications automatically licensed back to Razer, who can re-license to the community
HDK Progression
The HDK 1.4 was an evolution from earlier HDK versions, improving display quality and tracking before the release of the more advanced HDK 2.
Design and Hardware
Display System
The HDK 1.4 featured a single LCD panel:
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
- Per Eye: 960 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
Field of View
The headset offered a 100-degree diagonal field of view, providing good immersion for its generation.
Optical System
The HDK 1.4 included adjustable focus optics:
- Diopter Range: +450 to -200 degrees
- Purpose: Accommodates users with vision correction needs
- Note: No mechanical IPD adjustment
Construction
- Body: Injection molded flat-black plastic
- Faceplate: Removable, containing IR LED array
- Facial Interface: Pliable rubber-like material with soft foam gasket (Velcro attached)
Tracking System
Positional Tracking
The HDK 1.4 included 6DoF tracking via:
- IR Faceplate: Array of infrared LEDs
- External Camera: IR camera for positional tracking
- Refresh Rate: 100 Hz tracking
Software Platform
OSVR Compatibility
The HDK 1.4 was powered by the OSVR software platform with extensive compatibility:
- Native OSVR experiences
- SteamVR content (HTC Vive games)
- WebVR
- 360 video and media
Ecosystem Support
Over 320 official OSVR supporters including:
- Intel, NVIDIA, Acer
- Ubisoft, Gearbox Software, Legendary Studios
- VR partners: Leap Motion, Nod Labs, Perception Neuron, Jaunt
Limitations
Oculus-based content was not supported.
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel i5-4590 or equivalent |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 970 or equivalent |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| OS | Windows |
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (960 x 1080 per eye) |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Field of View | 100° |
| Tracking | 6DoF (IR) |
| Focus Adjustment | +450 to -200 diopters |
| Connectivity | HDMI, USB |
| Price | $299 |
| License | Open Source (Apache 2.0 / MDK) |