Running Tech Checks

It is important to perform a tech check with each participant to ensure that your event runs smoothly. Doing these Tech Checks will help ensure that each participant is not only prepared to put on their headset, but also help ensure that your session runs smoothly without technical issues. 

See the following section for information related for VR tech checks, or to jump to the desktop tech checks section, click the following link:

Desktop Tech Checks



VR Tech Checks

Prerequisites for running Tech Checks with clients

  1. Check the Apollo Current Release or Boomerang Current Release article and ensure all Facilitator machines are updated. The Apollo Facilitator build version number should be the same as the version installed in headset.
  2. Allow adequate delivery time for shipping of headsets to remote participants before scheduling tech checks.
  3. Remote tech checks can run in groups of up to 4 players at one time. We find that a larger group for tech checks is difficult to manage.
  4. Participants must have:
    • Their headsets unboxed, fully charged and to hand.
    • Batteries in both controllers.
    • Their Wi-Fi password written down or memorised.
    • A minimum 2 x 3m (6 x 10 feet) clear, clutter free floor space to set their play area boundary. 3 x 3m (10 x 10 ft) is optimal.
  5. Schedule tech checks on all headsets with the participant in the location from which they intend to join the workshop. See tech specs for details.


Tech checks should be completed a minimum of 5 days before the event, and cover the following:

  1. Internet Speed Test - An adequate Wi-Fi connection should be established prior to running the event. The minimum requirements to join the VR session are 20 mbps download, 10 mbps upload and ping and jitter under 50ms. (To test network speed, go to https://speed.cloudflare.com/)Ensure this test is performed on a device connected to the Wi-Fi and not a PC on a wired LAN, and that the Wi-Fi device is not connected to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). It is essential to ensure that the participant completes the speed test on the Wi-Fi network the headset will be using and not with a wired connection as the results may be different. For most participants this won't be a problem as they will be using a laptop on Wi-Fi, but the technician should check before accepting the results. 
  2. Headsets and controllers - Headsets should be set up before the event. Ensure that the headset and controllers have a proper charge, the headset has been connected to Wi-Fi, a guardian boundary has been established, and the correct applications have been installed. Recommend to the participant that they ensure they have spare AA batteries for the session in case their controllers run out.
  3. Software Installation - Ensure that the correct software (i.e. Apollo, Boomerang and/or Discovery Deck) has been installed on the headset.
  4. Connection Test - Connect to a game to ensure that all systems are operating correctly.
  5. Voice Functionality Check - Make sure the voice function works properly. Miscommunications due to voice issues can impact the gameplay experience. Refer here for voice chat troubleshooting.
  6. Dashboard Access - (only if using an application that produces a Jenson8 report): Ensure participants are able to use their login credentials to successfully access the Jenson8 dashboard ahead of the event.

Technician Checklist

When Jenson8 perform Tech Checks, we make use of a Technician Checklist to ensure all required steps are completed. The following information should be reviewed and addressed by a technician during the tech check. Please refer to the checklist below to ensure that all the required information is collected, and the correct procedures are completed before the start of your event.


General information/Supplementary materials:

  • Does the participant have any experience using VR? (yes/no)
  • Has the participant completed the pre-task survey (if required)? (yes/no)

Establishing a Wi-Fi connection:

  • Speed test results (using a phone or other device connected to Wi-Fi)
  • Participant location (home/office)

In Headset:

  • Wi-Fi connection established in headset? (yes/no)
  • Correct version of software installed? (yes/no)
  • Connection to server successful? (yes/no)
  • Guardian boundary established? (yes/no)
  • Enough space for boundary? (yes/no)

Dashboard: (only if using an application that produces a Jenson8 report)

  • Does the participant have their login credentials for the dashboard? (yes/no)
  • Can the participant successfully log into and view the dashboard? (yes/no)

As can be seen above, you will want to go through each step from making sure that the participants are connected to the Wi-Fi, have a guardian boundary, have enough space, and have an adequate internet connection. Jenson8 usually allocates a 30 minute slot to complete a Tech Check, though how long it actually takes can vary depending on the technical aptitude of the participant. This can also give you an idea of which participants are likely to require further technical support during the session.


 


 


 


Desktop Tech Checks


Given the technical aspects involved, Jenson8 strongly recommend that a colleague from your IT support team assists with the preparation for Apollo and Boomerang Desktop. Corporate laptops often have certain restrictions that could complicate the installation and running of new software. Having someone from IT involved in the initial install can help address any potential issues and streamline the process. If the option is available, using personal, unrestricted laptops can circumvent the need to open ports and work through firewalls, making the setup even smoother.




The tech check process for the Desktop versions mirrors our typical VR tech check:


  1. Internet Speed Test - A stable and robust internet connection is paramount for an uninterrupted experience. Make sure to test your connection speed before starting. The minimum requirements to join the VR session are 20 mbps download, 10 mbps upload and ping and jitter under 50ms. (To test network speed, go to https://speed.cloudflare.com/).
    Ensure this test is performed on the PC which will be participating in the ensure; ensuring any VPN or security which may affect network connection has been disabled.

  2. Software Installation - Install Apollo or Boomerang Desktop on your device.

  3. Game Connection Test - Connect to a game to ensure that all systems are operating correctly.

  4. Voice Functionality Check - Ensure the voice function works properly. Miscommunications due to voice issues can impact the gameplay experience.
    For desktop users it is important that the Windows system sound settings have the correct input and output device selected before entering Apollo or Boomerang, changing inputs after entering a session may disconnect the users microphone from VoIP.
    Refer here for voice chat troubleshooting.

  5. Dashboard Access (only if using an application that produces a Jenson8 report): Ensure participants are able to use their login credentials to successfully access the Jenson8 dashboard ahead of the event. 

Please remember that the tech check is a crucial step in ensuring that your Jenson8 VR experience is as seamless as possible. Until these tests have been successfully completed, we cannot guarantee the usability of the Apollo or Boomerang Desktop




For instructions on how to install the Desktop versions, please refer here for Apollo, and here for Boomerang.

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