DIY Make your own Track IR Pro headset, 3 point clip, for less than $10
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Was reading how some were making their own DIY head tracking light sets, so i thought i would give that dusty graduation diploma from DeVry college some pay back…
Turns out it works.
The exact dimension specs seem to be important to the Track IR head set lights to work properly.
Currently i am using the FreeTrack software, that is a free open source program, that integrates with Track IR and is tested to work in Falcon.I had to dismantle a bicycle light, removing some of the 5 LEDs, and in this model, i left 2 out(still works ok), and relocated 2 LEDs to wired positions, for a 3 point head tracking clip.
I then ran the wires thru plastic straws(light weight), and soldered in place. Took me about 5 hours total, from research, to final testing.
Added a clip to it by modifying(bending) the clip wire. Simple attach to your headphone set or baseball cap.
You will need to learn how to calibrate the software to whatever camera you choose to use. Does not require an expensive webcam, $20 tops.
Takes a bit of repeat tweaking to get the software to suit you. 72nd VFM Virtual Fighter Wing has a page that can help you with the FreeTrack settings, but ultimately if you play around with the settings you will eventually get it to work. Every system camera is different, so tweaking is necessary.
Uses rechargeable batteries, rather than occupying a USB port or USB wall plug, although one could research that mod if they want.
One last tip…pay attention to where your hand is when you reach for that hot soldering iron. It will bite you hard and deep, long before you even realize it, and realize it you WILL. ha
And pay attention to the original LED wiring when you rewire them, as they only work one way. Test it before you solder it. Also use sand paper or a grinding wheel to grind down the round tip of the LED, to make it easier to track.
Use something sturdy, yet flexible to attach to headset and adjustable for the lights. When in doubt, tape it. Center light should be positioned just below the ear for the most accurate tracking.
Included is an image for the USB circuit which would be about the same cost as a bicycle light, maybe less, if you recycle some obsolete electronics…ya, you know that big box in the bottom of the closet, from what decade was it now?
Experiment with the minimum and maximum point size tab, and the camera threshold adjustable setting for light sensitivity. Every camera is different. Works best in a dark room. Eliminate any reflective objects. Be sure to set the mode to 3 points clip. You should see 3 red dots light up, that turn to locking green when it is correct. If it sees any more or any less than 3 light sources, it will scramble.
Found a good FreeTrack [profile](https://www.dropbox.com/s/awq05mgo8pjub9p/Peace Falcon BMS Free Track profile2 . rar) that you can download and unzip into the profile folder of FreeTrack program.