Sixense STEM
| Developer | Sixense |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
Sixense STEM is a wireless 6DOF magnetic tracking controller from Sixense.
The STEM System by Sixense is a fully modular motion tracking system designed specifically for emerging VR systems and applications. The system is based on the same technology that has been used in the Razer Hydra controller. With the STEM System, Sixense would like to branch out from licensing their technology to manufacturing.
Features[edit]
Some of the main advantages of the STEM System over the Razer Hydra and other competing controllers include its wireless operation, modularity, and superb tracking performance.
The dominant idea behind this system is to offer both users and developers a flexible way how to accurately track motion in virtual reality applications, and easily customize the form factor of the controller. The STEM System is able to read data from up to five individual STEM tracking modules, which can be mounted on virtually any place on the body or fitted inside a plastic sword, racing wheel or, for example, replica pistol. As such, the system is capable of full body tracking and application-specific motion control.
STEM tracking modules can be located anywhere within an 8-foot radius from the Base unit, which can, in turn, be approximately 3 feet away from the receiver. The A/C electromagnetic field used for position and motion detection operates with less than 10ms latency. Because the technology does not use inertial sensors, there is no drift caused by acceleration and deceleration.
Software[edit]
The STEM System is designed to be more than just a VR controller. Sixense wants to create an open platform for developers, content creators, and end users. The second-generation Sixense SDK is available for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems, and it provides backward compatibility with existing products powered by Sixense motion tracking technology.
The system is not limited to just new titles. The Sixense MotionCreator for PC is able to adapt motion input to the native control system of virtually any video game. Users can create and share profiles used for seamless translation of motion tracking into button presses and mouse movement.
Those interested in what Sixense STEM System has to offer can try the Sixense Tuscany Demo. It demonstrates what the system is capable of and acts as a reference implementation for further development.
The project launched back in September of 2013 and greatly surpassed the original goal of $250,000 in October of the same year.