From: gel24@gel.ulaval.ca (Marc Bernatchez) Subject: Re: INFO: Vfx-1 VR Headset Date: 10 Dec 1994 16:44:31 GMT Organization: Dept. Genie Electrique, Universite Laval Lines: 150 this is from my personal database... =================================================================== The VFX1 Head Mounted System (HMS) brings the next generation of PC Virtual Reality to the market today. It is a true integrated VR headset with 3D colour imaging, 3D stereo sound and 3 axis head tracking. The VFX1 HMS brings a standard design into head mounted systems by providing an integration of technology and comfort n an affordable, cost effective package. 3D Stereoscopic imaging: The VFX1 HMS provides leading edge technology using 2 colour LCD's each with high resolution 428 x 244 images. Each eye sees different images, but both eyes work as a team. It is the equivalent of sitting in a movie theatre near the front row. We take advantage of this to provide the feeling of total immersion and put you right where the action is. 3D VOS Head Tracker: FORTE's proprietary Virtual Orientation System (patent pending) tracks you head's every move. It provides accurate input and responsive feedback putting you in the middle of the virtual world. The VOS head tracker provides roll, pitch, and yaw for precise VR orientation. Since this tracking system is passive, there is no need for external tracking equipment. Everything needed, is selfcontained in the headset. 3D Holographic Sound: FORTE's VFX1 HMS utilizes the Advanced Gravis UltraSound for its 3D holographic stereo sound. While this headset can work with any other high quality sound card, 3D sound provides true sound immersion for that extra VR cyber edge. The VFX1 gives you the power to be in the string section of an orchestra or the newest hero blasting evil aliens. VFX1 Smart Visor: The Smart Visor allows the VR user to interactively use the PC or workstation without removing the HMS. With the Smart Visor you flip up the visor when not immersed. When ready for VR action, simply pull down the visor and instantly enter the virtual world. In addition, its easy adjustments allow this head mounted system to fit most head sizes comfortably. FORTE's VFX1 Interface Card (VIC): This unique HMS interface allows the VFX1 to connect with existing VGA cards. There is no need to purchase a separate video card to get virtual reality images. So if you like the quality of your Speedstar(tm) or the speed of your Stealth(tm) , you can keep right on running with them. As the performance of your video cars improve, so will the VFX1 headset. This feature also allows you to use this headset with today's existing software applications. Lightweight and Durable: The open architecture of this HMS allows air to circulate through the headset. This lightweight design does not rest on the face or nose, but is distributed over the entire head. FORTE's state of the art design allows us to make the VFX1 HMS ergonomically comfortable, sporty in appearance and able to withstand the toughest of poundings from rugged cyberspace users. Performance Specifications ========================== Displays: - 3D stereoscopic Smart Visor - 428 x 244 resolution x 2 - Dual 0.7 inch active matrix liquid crystal display w/backlight - High contrast full colour video - Picture size: vertical - 10.6 mm horizontal - 14.3 mm - NTSC & PAL compatible - Provides image of 35 ft screen at a distance of 35 ft. Optics: - Field of View (FOV): vertical - 35.2 degrees horizontal - 46.4 degrees diagonal - 56.1 degrees Virtual Orientation System (VOS) Head Tracker: - Angular range: vertical +/-70 degrees horizontal 360 degrees -Angular resolution: vertical - 0.077 degrees horizontal - 0.251 degrees - Sensed degrees of freedom: yaw (azimuth)pitch (elevation) roll (tilt) Connections: - Single 26 pin D connector (High resolution) containing video, audio and VOS head tracking sensor cable - Connects to VFX1 interface card (VIC) - VIC interfaces with standard VGA card feature connector - Stereo cable from VFX1 to stereo sound card 8 or 16 PC ISA slot Video: - High resolution colour - VFX1 accepts NTSC and PAL signals - Works with existing Standard VGA applications Audio: - High fidelity stereo headphones - Interfaces with standard PC sound card's Amp/line out connector - Recommend 3D holographic sound from Advanced Gravis Ultrasound - 3D holographic sound provides audio spacialization for true 3D sound effects Adjustments: - Smart Visor rotates up and out of the way when not immersed in VR world - Smart Visor rotates down and adjusts for closeness to the face - Removal of the headset is not necessary when interacting outside the headset - Fully adjustable interpupillary distance (IPD) - Individual eye focus adjustment (can remove glasses to use and maintain focus) - Rear adjustable strap for firm fit VFX1 Interface Card (VIC): - Interfaces with standard VGA card feature connector - 26 pin ribbon cable Power Requirements: - 5 volts, 2.5 watts - 0.25 amps System Requirements: - IBM PC or compatible 386, 486+ - Standard VGA card - Stereo sound card (Recommend Advanced Gravis Ultrasound for 3D holographic sound) FORTE Technologies Inc. Paul Matthews 1057 E. Henrietta Rd. Rochester, NY 14623 ph (716) 427-8595 fax (716) 292-6353 ========================================================================= I hope this help. It's the original press release that was posted a year ago I think. Sorry for the bad text placement. Bye. ==================================================================== == Marc Bernatchez = E-MAIL == == C.O.P.L. = gel24@gel.ulaval.ca == == Dep. Genie electrique = marc.bernatchez@gel.ulaval.ca == == Universite LAVAL ======================================== == Quebec, Canada = graphics is the future of computers == ====================================================================