Lecture Notes: VR and Software Setup on Windows vs Linux

Introduction

• Topic: Using ALVR to stream PC VR games to Oculus Quest
• Key Points:
  • ALVR is favored over Oculus Link for better performance and open-source nature.
  • Lecture discusses personal experience with setting up ALVR on Windows and Linux.
  • Speaker is not a developer, no programming involved, purely user experience.

ALVR Setup Experience

• Windows Setup: Easy

  • Download and install the binary.
  • ALVR works as expected after installation.

• Linux Setup: Complex

  • Initial installation leads to SteamVR error (Error 307) due to MESA package.
  • Requires downloading, modifying, and compiling MESA source for compatibility.
  • Successful solution after multiple attempts and over an hour.
  • Extra effort needed to adjust RPM rather than an Arch package.

Performance Testing

Windows Performance

• Baseline Test: Higher Settings
  • Using settings 4032x2112 resolution, 130 Mbps, 120Hz refresh rate for initial tests.
  • Noticeable latency and stuttering due to recording with OBS.
  • Latency recalculated using a nightly version of ALVR.
  • Changing settings to 90Hz showed increased latency and less smooth visuals.

Linux Performance

• Performance Impressions
  • Initially impressed; latency feels better compared to Windows 90Hz.
  • Noticeable issues with big scene changes causing slow-motion effects.
  • Running Beat Saber via Proton, performs well despite lack of native Linux support.
  • No issues with game performance on bare metal (not virtualized).

Conclusion

• Current State

  • Linux setup viable but not yet reaching full performance parity with Windows.
  • Some persistent issues with SteamVR not ending properly.
  • Optimistic for future improvements in feature parity by year-end.

• Final Thoughts

  • Encouragement towards open-source VR solutions.
  • Acknowledgement of Windows' reliability but desire for open-source alternatives.
  • Optimism for future when Windows may no longer be necessary for VR applications.

Additional Remarks

• Personal Note: Speaker experienced in high refresh rate displays (120Hz on Quest, 144Hz monitor).
• General Observation: Transitioning back to 90Hz highlights latency and performance differences.