PlayStation VR2 to PC Connection Guide: Step-by-Step

If you're eager to immerse yourself in the vast world of SteamVR games using your PlayStation VR2 headset on a gaming PC, your options have expanded significantly. Sony's release of a $60 adapter last fall has opened the door for PS VR2 owners to connect their headsets to modern gaming PCs, provided those PCs meet the necessary minimum specifications. However, the setup process isn't as straightforward as simply plugging in the adapter. Despite its plug-and-play marketing, some key features may be missing, requiring additional setup based on your PC's configuration.

How to Connect to Your PC With the Adapter

Before you begin the setup process, ensure you have all the required 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 an AC power outlet, and both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR apps installed on Steam. The PS VR2's Sense controllers require charging via USB-C, so you'll need two USB-C ports and cables or consider purchasing Sony's $50 Sense controller charging station for a more convenient solution.

What You'll Need

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PlayStation VR2 PC Adapter

Before diving in, check if your gaming PC is compatible with the PlayStation VR2 headset. Visit Sony's official PS VR2 PC Adapter preparation page to verify your system's compatibility. If everything checks out, here's what you'll need:

• A PlayStation VR2 headset
• The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter (with AC adapter and male USB 3.0 Type-A cable included)
• A DisplayPort 1.4 cable (sold separately)
• A free USB 3.0 Type-A port on your PC (Sony advises against using extension cables or external hubs, 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 inside of Steam

How to Connect: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have all the necessary components, follow these steps to connect your PS VR2 to your PC:

1. Install SteamVR and the PlayStation VR2 app:
   • Download and install the Steam Windows client if you haven't already.
   • Open Steam and install the SteamVR app.
   • 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, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > toggle Bluetooth to "On."
   • On each controller, hold down the PlayStation button and Create button until the white light at the bottom starts to blink.
   • On your PC, click the "Add device" button to the right of "Devices" on the Bluetooth & devices page.
   • Select "Bluetooth" from the menu and search for PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller (L) and (R). Connect both devices.
   • If your PC lacks built-in Bluetooth 4.0, use a compatible adapter like the Asus BT500.
   • If using an external adapter alongside a built-in Bluetooth radio, disable the internal Bluetooth driver via 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.
   • Once powered on, the adapter's status indicator will turn solid red.
   • 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 using a newer GPU like a 40-series Nvidia RTX card, disable Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling for stable VR gameplay.
   • 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 until it rumbles.
   • Turn on SteamVR and set it as your default OpenXR runtime.
   • Open the PlayStation VR2 app to update your Sense controllers' firmware and set up your PS VR2 headset, including your Play Area and preferences.
   • Follow on-screen and in-headset instructions to set up your IPD, display distance, and adjust the headset's fit.
   • Once setup is complete, enjoy playing SteamVR games!

Can You Connect to PC Without an Adapter?

Currently, connecting the PS VR2 to a PC without the adapter isn't officially supported. However, some users have found a workaround with certain GPUs from around 2018 that feature a USB-C port and VirtualLink technology. According to Road to VR, these setups can connect directly to the PS VR2 with the PlayStation VR2 app installed, bypassing the need for the PC adapter. However, this method isn't universally supported and may not work for all users.