General Information

Hardware and Software Compatibility

Operation

Stereovision 3D

Integrated Headtracker

General Information

What is the Z800 3DVisor? The Z800 3DVisor is the world's first personal display system to combine two OLED microdisplays with stereovision 3D capabilities, stereo audio, a noise-canceling microphone, and an integrated head tracker. The eMagin Z800 3DVisor uniquely provides a view equivalent to a 105-inch screen at twelve feet with 3D capability. Its high-speed head tracker enables full 360-degree virtual-surround viewing. Completing this experience is an integrated, stereo audio system with high fidelity ear buds and a built-in noise-canceling microphone. The Z800 3DVisor delivers this experience while drawing its power from any standard USB port with no additional power sources.

Ideal for computer gaming, the Z800 3DVisor also supports PC-based simulation, graphics, design, and personal entertainment programs. It can be used as the primary display or as an extended dual-monitor with a laptop. In addition to providing a compelling gaming experience, the Z800 3DVisor is ideal for high-resolution private viewing of DVDs from your computer and viewing proprietary work while traveling or in tight spaces.

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What are the features of the Z800 3DVisor? The Z800 3DVisor features a color, 3D, head-worn video system complete with stereo audio and head-tracking capabilities. It can be completely powered through your PC's USB port (or, as an option, with a 9VDC external power supply). It is compatible with frame sequential or stereovision 3D imagery, creating a virtual image comparable to viewing a 105-inch screen from 12 feet.

  • Extremely portable -- can go anywhere without requiring a power source other than the USB on your computer
  • Integrated head tracker converts your head's movements into look-around, scrolling, or mouse pointer motion on your screen
  • Equipped with a built-in noise-canceling microphone and stereo earbuds
  • Contains two eMagin OLED Microdisplays for a flicker-free, vividly-colored 3D-capable experience
  • Specially designed optics provide an unparalleled ~40 degree field of view

What kind of display technology is used in the Z800 3DVisor? At the core of the Z800 3DVisor is a pair of eMagin SVGA 3D OLED (organic light-emitting diode) microdisplays. These microdisplays incorporate the same OLED display technology currently being used by the US Army Land Warrior program and many other high performance display systems. They deliver high-speed, high-resolution (800x600 triad pixels), high-color (>16 million) imagery for near-eye applications. eMagin's OLED microdisplays are thinner and lighter than Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs). In addition, because OLED materials emit their own light, they require less power, permitting the Z800 3DVisor to deliver stereovision, head tracking, and hi-fi sound from a single USB power source.

OLED displays offer higher contrast and a wider dispersion of light, making them more comfortable for near-eye use. eMagin's patented 3D OLED displays can recognize and deliver left-eye and right-eye stereovision signals with unsurpassed efficiency. Color data is buffered under each pixel site, eliminating flicker and smear. If only 2D information is available the Z800 3DVisor still delivers unsurpassed visual quality.

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How do I know if my Z800 3DVisor has been shipped? You will receive a notice that your credit card was charged and your product shipped.

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What is included when I buy a Z800 3DVisor? The package contains everything necessary to install the display and start gaming on your PC, including the following items:

  • 1 Z800 3DVisor (including the headset and the Controller)
  • 1 VGA Video Connection Cable (1 foot) (connection between your PC and the Z800 3DVisor Controller)
  • 1 USB Connection Cable (2 feet) (connection between your PC and the Z800 3DVisor Controller)
  • 2 Audio Cables (2 feet) (connects both audio input and output between your PC and the Z800 3DVisor)
  • 2 Personal Earbud Headphones
  • 1 Padded Carrying Case (with introductory Z800 3DVisors)
  • 1 Software and Documentation CD
  • 1 Quick Start Guide
  • 1 Warranty Registration Card

How much does the Z800 3DVisor weigh? The Z800 3DVisor headset weighs less than 8 ounces.

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Where can I buy a Z800 3DVisor? The Z800 3DVisor is available for purchase at our online store, and from select distributors.

Is a wireless version available? No affordable power-efficient wireless technology can currently support high quality full-motion SVGA video with sound. We are closely monitoring developments in wireless technology, and we will consider providing this option either directly or through third parties when it becomes available.

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Are they available overseas? The Z800 3DVisor is freely available for order at our online store. However, the current versions are only available with English documentation and FCC certification (USA). Additional international certifications are planned.

Certain countries are or may become restricted for shipment owing to business or regulatory reasons. If you place an order and it is restricted, you will be notified when such a determination is made. No charge will be made to your credit card if determined before shipment, or a refund will be provided after the Z800 is returned by the shipper.

Hardware and Software Compatibility

What are the system requirements? For head tracking and 2D use:

  • PC-compatible computer or laptop with one available USB port
  • Windows XP® or Windows Vista
  • 10MB of available hard-disk space
  • CD-ROM or DVD drive
  • Monitor resolution setting of 800x600
  • Monitor refresh rate setting of 60 Hz
  • USB Port
    For 3D operation (Note: the Z800 3DVisor works with standard graphic cards from Intel, ATI and other manufacturers in 2D mode, but requires frame sequential 3D stereovision input for 3D):
  • NVIDIA 3D Accelerator Card using ForceWare® Graphics Drivers
  • TNT (including TNT2 and Vanta products)
  • GeForce (including GeForce 256, GeForce2 and GeForce3 products)
  • Quadro (including Quadro2 products) Other video cards may be able to provide stereovision 3D. Check with you video card supplier for more information.

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What resolution is the Z800 3DVisor capable of displaying? The Z800 3DVisor is compatible with PCs that are capable of producing an analog SVGA resolution (800x600) with a refresh rate of 60 Hz. At this time, higher resolutions or refresh rates are not supported.

Is the Z800 3DVisor compatible with my Playstation 2, Xbox, or GameCube? The Z800 3DVisor is not natively compatible with currently available video game consoles. You will need to use a signal converter to scale the standard NTSC signal to analog SVGA. Such converters are available from various websites. In addition, these consoles are not capable of taking advantage of the Z800 3DVisor's head-tracking and 3D capabilities. We will provide updates regarding use with upcoming models of consoles.

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Can I use the Z800 3DVisor to watch television or DVDs? You can use the Z800 3DVisor to view any movie capable of playing on your PC (SVGA signal at 60Hz) much like a standard desktop monitor. You can use a signal converter if you wish to use the Z800 3DVisor with standard or portable DVD players.

Is the Z800 3DVisor compatible with NTSC or PAL sources like television? How about HDTV? S-video? You will need to use a converter to scale from NTSC, PAL, S-video or HDTV signals to SVGA. The Controller does not feature inputs for these signals.

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What if my computer only has a DVI monitor output? Can the Z800 3DVisor accept a digital signal? Since the Z800 3DVisor is a fully analog device, it is not natively compatible with digital inputs. If your PC only has a DVI monitor output, you can use a DVI-to-analog converter. DVI converters are sometimes included with your PC system and are available at most computer equipment stores.

With which versions of Windows is the Z800 3DVisor compatible? At this time, eMagin highly recommends using the Z800 3DVisor on PCs running Windows XP (SP1 and SP2 OK) and Windows Vista.

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Is the Z800 3DVisor a Plug and Play Device? The Z800 3DVisor comes completely ready to use. Connecting the USB and VGA cables, installing the included software utilities, correctly setting your PC's Control Panel settings, and adjusting the Z800 3DVisor into a comfortable position are the only required steps for head tracking functionality and 2D use. For 3D operation, you will need to ensure that you are using a compatible NVIDIA graphics card and have downloaded and installed the necessary drivers from NVIDIA's website.

Can I use the Z800 3DVisor on my Mac or Linux computer? As long as the PC is capable of SVGA resolutions, you probably can use the Z800 3DVisor as a 2D portable monitor. However, extra functionality like 3D and head-tracking capabilities are unlikely at this time.

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Operation

Do I need to use an AC adapter or battery pack to power the Z800 3DVisor? The Z800 3DVisor can be fully powered simply by using your PC's USB port. Therefore, no external power source is necessary. This is the only recommended method.

The Z800 3DVisor Controller does have an input for an optional AC Adapter. USB is still required for head tracker functionality as the head tracker communicates with the PC through the USB port.

What is the field of view? The specially designed optics produce a nearly 40 degree diagonal field of view for each eye. This is equivalent to a 105-inch display viewed from 12 feet away.

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Does the Z800 3DVisor contain any components that are sensitive to magnets? The integrated head tracker does have some magnetic characteristics. eMagin strongly recommends that you do not place the Z800 3DVisor on any magnetic surfaces, like stereo speakers, or use the Z800 3DVisor in locations with strong magnetic fields. Since the head tracker uses compasses for orientation and stabilization, exposure to magnetic fields can disorient the head tracker and impair performance.

Can the Z800 3DVisor be used in an MRI machine? Because the Z800 3DVisor does contain some magnetic and metallic components you cannot use the commercially available product in an MRI machine.

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Can I use the Z800 3DVisor with glasses? If you use eyeglasses for distance viewing, you should wear your eyeglasses when using the Z800. The Z800 3DVisor was specifically designed to accommodate most forms of eyewear.

Can I use the Z800 3DVisor as a secondary monitor? Yes, the Z800 3DVisor can be set up as a primary or secondary monitor using Windows XP's multiple monitor support. The Z800 3DVisor Controller has both a VGA input and output enabling the Z800 3DVisor to be daisy-chained with a standard desktop monitor. This allows desktop PC users to connect both the Z800 3DVisor and their standard monitor and extend their desktop environment over both screens.

When used with a laptop computer, you can use the Z800 3DVisor to extend your desktop, or you can choose to turn off your LCD screen and use the Z800 3DVisor as your primary display. Turning off your screen and using only the USB-powered Z800 3DVisor will extend the life of your battery by approximately 30%.

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What is the microphone connection on the Z800 3DVisor Controller used for? Although not visible to the user, there is a noise canceling microphone located between the two eyepieces in the Z800 3DVisor. Connect the microphone port on your computer to the Z800 3DVisor Controller with the included audio cable and you will be able to verbally communicate with others online during gameplay.

Can I use my full size noise-canceling headphones with the Z800 3DVisor? Yes, you do have the option of connecting your own headphones to your PC while using your Z800 3DVisor. Unless you are using wireless headphones, this will require two cords connecting to the PC (one leading to the Z800 3DVisor and the other to your headphones). The earbuds included with the Z800 3DVisor plug into two audio jacks located on the headset unit just above the eyepieces. You are welcome to remove these earbuds and plug in your special headphones into these connectors. You may need an adapter to be able to connect to both audio inputs for stereo sound depending on your specific headphones.

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Stereovision 3D

What does "stereovision 3D" mean? Stereo vision refers to the human ability to see in three dimensions and most often refers to depth perception (the ability to determine the approximate distance of objects). Stereovision 3D provides this experience by delivering two distinct images simultaneously on two separate screens, one for each eye. To illustrate this principle, place your finger at arms length at eye level and close your right eye. This will give you one perspective. Now open your right eye and close your left. Your finger appears to jump approximately an inch. While your finger does not actually move, you are viewing it from a new perspective. Our brain joins these two perspectives to give us depth perception.

How does the stereoscopic Z800 3DVisor create "stereovision 3D"? The Z800 3DVisor uses two OLED microdisplays to accomplish this 3D effect with an advanced stereoscopic technique. When a frame-sequential 3D signal is input into the Z800 3DVisor, the Z800 divides the signal so that it alternates between both OLED Microdisplays. Each eye sees a different, but constant, perspective to mimic normal stereoscopic sight, creating a realistic 3D image. Since the OLED Microdisplays refresh so quickly, much faster than your average LCD display, no noticeable flicker is produced. To further eliminate flicker, each display uses analog DRAM to grab and hold information from refresh to refresh, meaning the display never has an opportunity to go black or "decay." The responsiveness and constant imagery combine to create the best 3D experience on the market today.

The quality of 3D you obtain will depend on your game software, video card, computer, and video card drivers. The Z800 3DVisor will reproduce high speed images from the 3D data provided to it.

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What is a "frame-sequential" 3D signal? Frame-sequential 3D delivers a signal to the display where every other frame shows the same image from a slightly different perspective. Also known as "page flipped," this is the type of 3D signal most common in 3D software and compatible the Z800 3DVisor.

Will stereovision 3D work on my computer? Most Windows XP and Windows Vista PCs and video cards have the potential of producing some level of stereovision 3D imagery with the right software. eMagin Corportaion's value added reseller (Virtual Realities) now has the Z800 working in 3D with Windows XP and Vista with most ATI and NVIDIA graphics card. Customers are also welcome to contact Virtual Realities at techsupport@vrealities.com if you require further detailed instructions.

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Is the Z800 3DVisor compatible with line-sequential signals? Currently, the Z800 3DVisor only supports frame-sequential (page flipped) signals. The first units are not currently compatible with line-sequential 3D used on many 3D DVDs.

What is the refresh rate of each eye in stereovision 3D mode? The 60 Hz signal alternates between each display. The resultant refresh rate is 30 Hz per eye. Due to eMagin's OLED Microdisplay technology, the image still remains high quality and flicker-free.

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Does the Z800 3DVisor use mechanical shutters? No.

Will the Z800 3DVisor create a 3D Windows environment on my PC? Native 2D environments, like your Windows desktop, will appear in 2D on the Z800 3DVisor -- even when using the 3D stereo drivers from NVIDIA. For an image to appear in 3D, the source content must provide stereovision 3D data. If you are unsure if your software is stereovision-compatible, please refer to the software maker for more information.

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Will all of my games become 3D on the Z800 3DVisor? Many games on the market do have stereovision 3D compatibility. Many times, this compatibility is not detailed on the game's packaging. Therefore, eMagin recommends that for specific games you download a demo version or contact the game's manufacturer. Some examples of compatible games are Unreal Tournament 2003 and 2004, Doom 3, Painkiller, Half-Life 2 and America's Army.

Is the Z800 3DVisor compatible with OpenGL or Direct3D based games? eMagin Corportaion's value added reseller (Virtual Realities) now has the Z800 working in 3D with Windows XP and Vista with most ATI and NVIDIA graphics cards. Customers are also welcome to contact Virtual Realities at techsupport@vrealities.com if you require further detailed instructions.

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Can I use two inputs into the Z800 3DVisor to create stereoscopic 3D images? eMagin Corporation's value added reseller (Virtual Realities) now offers a dual input version of the Z800.

 

Integrated Headtracker

What does the headtracker use to detect motion? The Z800 3DVisor's integrated headtracker uses micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect motion. The headtracker features three gyroscopes, one each for the X-, Y-, and Z-axis. In addition, the headtracker contains corresponding compasses and accelerometers to ensure performance over varying forms of motion.

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Do I need special software to use the headtracker? The Z800 3DVisor comes bundled with mouse emulation software specifically designed for use with the eMagin headtracker. After installation, the program runs in the background and translates detected head motion into motion on your screen. Specialized settings in the bundled software, Windows mouse controls, and special in-game settings can all be used to fine-tune the mouse emulation to your preferences.

Does the headtracker software support motion on the X, Y, and Z axis? Currently, the mouse emulation package supports motion on the X- and Y-axis. However, the tracker itself does have Z-axis capabilities.

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Is the headtracker compatible with most software? Since the mouse emulator program runs in the background of other programs, the headtracker can be used with most software that uses continuous mouse movement to simulate head motion. However, the functionality of the headtracker will differ depending on how the mouse is generally used in a specific piece of software.

How does the headtracker transmit data to the PC? The USB cable transmits all headtracker data to the PC.

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Can you provide some basic specifications of the headtracker?

  • Weight: less than 15 grams
  • Rotation Range: 360 degrees (all axis); Mouse emulator mode provides control over 360 degree horizontal and >60 degrees vertical
  • Data Update Speed: 125 Hz
  • Maximum Latency: 4 milliseconds (from device)
  • Drift: 1 degree/5 minutes
  • Resolution: 1 degree (yaw, pitch, and roll)

Does eMagin provide an SDK or API to interface with the headtracker? Yes. The SDK is available for download here.

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