"Connect PlayStation VR2 to PC: Easy Steps"

If you're eager to use your PlayStation VR2 headset with a gaming PC to explore the vast array of games available on SteamVR, your options have been limited until now. Good news for those previously tethered to consoles: Sony introduced a $60 adapter last fall that allows the PlayStation VR2 to connect to any modern gaming PC, provided your system meets the headset's minimum requirements. However, the process of connecting the PS VR2 to a PC involves more than just plugging in the adapter; despite its plug-and-play marketing, some features might require additional setup depending on your PC's configuration.

How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary components. The PS VR2, when connected via the adapter, is compatible with most SteamVR games. You'll need to confirm your PC has Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, a spare DisplayPort 1.4 cable, access to a power outlet, and both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. The Sense controllers that come with the PS VR2 charge via USB-C, so you'll need two USB-C ports and cables, or consider purchasing the $50 Sense controller charging station from Sony for a more convenient solution.

What You'll Need

Before you proceed, check if your gaming PC is compatible with the PlayStation VR2 headset. Visit Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page to verify. If your system is up to the task, here's what you'll need:

• A PlayStation VR2 headset
• The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (comes with an AC adapter and a 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 within Steam

How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you've gathered all the required items, follow these steps to connect your PS VR2 to your PC:

1. Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app: If you haven't already, download and install the Steam Windows client. Open Steam and install the SteamVR app. Then, download and install the PlayStation VR2 app.
2. Set up your PC's Bluetooth and pair your Sense Controllers: From your PC's start menu, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > toggle Bluetooth to "On." To pair your Sense controllers, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button on each controller until the white light at the bottom starts blinking. On your PC, click "Add device" on the Bluetooth & devices page, select "Bluetooth," and connect both the PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller (L) and (R). If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth 4.0, use a compatible adapter like the Asus BT500. If using an external adapter with a built-in Bluetooth radio, disable the internal Bluetooth driver in Device Manager.
3. 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. The adapter's status indicator will turn solid red when powered on. Connect the PlayStation VR2 to the PC adapter via the USB-C port on the front of the adapter.
4. Turn off Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling (optional): If your PC has a newer GPU like a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, you might need to disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for a stable VR experience. Navigate to Settings > System > Display > Graphics, click "Default graphics settings," and turn off the "Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling" slider. Restart your PC.
5. Launch the PlayStation VR2 App and SteamVR: Boot up the PlayStation VR2 headset by holding down the central button underneath the visor until it vibrates. Turn on SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime. From your desktop, open the PlayStation VR2 app to update your Sense controllers' firmware wirelessly and set up your PS VR2 headset, including your Play Area and other preferences. Follow the on-screen and in-headset instructions to adjust your IPD, display distance, and tighten the headset for comfort. Once setup is complete, you're ready to dive into SteamVR games!

Can You Connect to PC Without an Adapter?

Currently, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC without the adapter is not officially supported. However, according to Road to VR, some GPUs from around 2018 with a USB-C port and VirtualLink feature might allow a direct connection to the PS VR2, provided the PlayStation VR2 app is installed. This bypasses the need for the PC adapter, but it's not a guaranteed solution for all users.