IPD adjustment with Bigscreen Beyond 2 and Beyond 2e is a feature that both enables users to dial in a perfect fit for themselves, and optionally allows them to share the experience with others.

Getting the right IPD is key to a comfortable, clear, and immersive experience with Bigscreen Beyond 2 and Beyond 2e. In this post, we'll walk you through what IPD is, how to find your personal measurement, and how to adjust it on your headset for the best possible fit.

What is IPD?

IPD, or Inter-Pupillary Distance, is the measurement between your left and right pupils. IPD can vary based on factors like age and genetics. IPD measurements are generally found in one of two ways: Single IPD or Binocular PD readings.

A single IPD reading is the total distance between both eyes, generally ranging from 50 to 75 millimeters.

Binocular PD readings are the distance between either eye to the nose bridge (both measured simultaneously). The sum of these two values gives you your single IPD reading.

Having the correct IPD set for your headset is important for clarity and comfort. With a mismatched IPD, there may be adverse effects such as blurred vision, difficulty judging distances, and potentially even nausea.

How to find your IPD

Your personal IPD value can be determined in several ways, including using previous headset readings, measuring with a ruler and a mirror, or visiting an optometrist. We recommend using a starting point from one of these methods and then fine-tuning your IPD while wearing the headset to achieve the optimal image.

Existing headset readings

Using an existing headset IPD reading (i.e. Valve Index, Quest 3, Pico 4, etc.) can provide a decent starting point. We find lowering the IPD by around 1-3mm from other headsets tends to provide favourable results with Beyond 2.

Optometrist IPD reading

When providing an optical prescription, optometrists may also provide an accurate IPD reading. We generally recommend using your 'Distance IPD' (alternatively ‘Far IPD’),  which is measured at 1 meter or further, as the Beyond's virtual focal plane is designed for that range.

Phone app

While phone-based scanning apps may not provide extremely accurate results, we find these results are generally a good reference as a starting point. Similar to our 3D Scan process for the Custom-Fit Cushion, these applications utilize the device camera to scan your face and provide an estimated IPD reading.

Note: Third-party apps or websites are not affiliated with Bigscreen. These services may collect personal data. Bigscreen can neither guarantee the accuracy of IPD measured through third-party apps or websites nor ensure the security of your personal data.

• iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/eyemeasure/id1417435049

• Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sixoversix.copyglass 

Web browser scan

Similar to phone-based scanning apps, using a web browser scan may provide similar results from either mobile devices or desktop devices with a webcam. To access the scan on the following website, click “Try it now”.

https://www.zennioptical.com/measuring-pd-infographic 

Ruler and mirror

This option is quick, easy, and accessible. All you need is a straight ruler, a mirror, and even lighting.

1. Stand in a well-lit room in front of a mirror (at least 0.5-1 meter away). Ensure both eyes can be seen clearly.
   

2. Hold a ruler or measuring tape horizontally against your face, close to your eyes. 
   

3. Close one eye. Align the "0" mark on the ruler with the center of your open eye's pupil. Ensure the ruler is level with both eyes.
   

4. Without moving the ruler, open the closed eye and close the other eye. Read the measurement at the center of the now-open eye's pupil. 
   

5. Repeat the process a couple of times to ensure accuracy and note down the measurement in millimeters.
   

Adjusting your IPD on Beyond 2

Beyond 2 was designed with an asymmetric IPD adjustment mechanism. This means either optic module can move independently of the other, to provide the optimal image for both eyes regardless of potential facial asymmetry. This way, whenever you get in VR, you’ll have a crystal clear image displayed for ultimate immersion with Beyond 2.

Overview

The IPD adjustment screw is sized for the included 0.9mm hex tool. We recommend using this tool, as third-party tools may potentially damage the headset's sensitive internal components.

When adjusting the IPD, removing the cushion may help with reading the IPD scale inside the headset.

Fine-tuning the IPD can also be done while wearing the headset. Let’s start with adjusting IPD without wearing the headset. To do so, gently insert the IPD tool until it’s fully seated.

Slowly turn until the appropriate optic module moves.

Note: attempting to move the optic module wider than its widest, or narrower than its narrowest setting may result in damage to sensitive internal components.

Adjusting the Optics
To adjust the optics, twist the adjustment knob on each side of the headset.

• Right Side:
  Twist clockwise (when facing the headset) to move the lens inward (smaller IPD). Twist counterclockwise to move it outward (larger IPD).
• Left Side:
  Twist clockwise (when facing the headset) to move the lens outward (larger IPD). Twist counterclockwise to move it inward (smaller IPD).

Adjusting your IPD in the Beyond Utility

Begin by averaging the IPD readings from both the left and right lens modules. For instance, if the left eye is 59mm and the right is 64mm, the combined average is 61.5mm. A good initial IPD setting for this scenario would be 61mm, as this provides a balanced starting point for fine-tuning.

Note: For Beyond 2e, changing your IPD setting may require you to perform a new Enrollment with the updated IPD configuration. For more information on the Enrollment process, refer to this blogpost.

Dialing In Your IPD

Adjusting the IPD on the Beyond 2 headset requires patience and a bit of trial and error. An incorrect IPD setting can cause several issues, such as feeling cross-eyed, or blurry text and details.

If your IPD is set too wide, you might find it difficult to focus on close-up objects, particularly those within arm's reach. You can test this by trying to focus on a virtual controller, steering wheel, or joystick while in-game.

Conversely, an IPD setting that is too narrow can make it difficult to focus on objects that are farther away (approximately 2 to 5 meters or more in-game). This can also result in a reduced field of view (FOV).

For a more precise adjustment, you can use text on screen, or a test pattern (like the one shown below) to fine-tune your settings. Adjust each eye until the text, or thin lines, appear clear for both eyes around the center of your vision.

Test pattern for IPD adjustment: Courtesy of Karl Guttag / KGOnTech.

Conclusion

This has been an extensive guide to IPD adjustment on Beyond 2 and Beyond 2e. If you have any questions, need further clarification, or assistance, reach out to our friendly support team (support@bigscreenvr.com), and we’ll be more than happy to help!