[5 Solutions] HTC Vive Base Stations Not Syncing

HTC Vive base stations’ syncing issue is prevalent among users. If you’re one of them then don’t worry. We’re here with some effective tips that’ll surely help you solve this issue.

Sometimes turning your base stations off and then on may resolve the issue, but it’s neither a permanent nor a perfect solution. On the contrary, it can cause some problems with the headset.

So, without wasting time, let’s get into the best solutions regarding your HTC Vive base stations not syncing issue.

Solutions for HTC Vive Base Stations Not Syncing

It’s quite annoying when you’ve spent a lot of time by installing the base stations and securing them with the attachments, but in the end, they fail to sync and you can’t enjoy them in the first place.

Therefore, the following solutions will help you to get rid of this issue and let you enjoy your setup as you’re supposed to.

Solution 1: Ensure That the Base Stations Are Properly Placed 

The setup procedure for the HTC Vive is actually quite complicated and pretty much time-consuming because of the headset’s tracking positioning. That’s why it should be placed properly to support better tracking. So –

Step 1: Orient the base stations downward between 30° to 45°. 

Step 2: Place the base stations above 6.5 feet (which is recommended) or above the level of your head.

Step 3: Don’t exceed the two stations’ distance of more than 16 feet.

Solution 2: Ensure That the Base Stations Are Secured

In order to emit infrared light, each of the stations is provided with a spinning motor. That’s why if you don’t firmly attach them to the wall, they’ll become unstable while vibrating. 

Therefore, use the mounting kit that comes with the package to firmly install the stations. Screw the holder clamping ring and wingnut so tight that the stations may not drift with time.

Solution 3: Ensure That The Channels Are Set Properly

The HTC Vive works on several channels for syncing. There’re two different sync options based on whether is wired or not. There’s a button on the rear panel of each station that is used to change the channel. 

Step 1: If you want to establish a wired / Cabled sync, set one of the stations to channel A and the other one to channel B.

Step 2: On the other hand, if you want to go for the wireless sync option, then set one of the stations to channel B and the other one to channel C. 

Solution 4: Utilize a Cabled Sync

The fact is a wired connection is always better and more reliable than the wireless one. That’s why using a cable sync for your base stations will decrease the complication and make the tracking system more convenient. 

A 15-meter length cable comes with the package. So, sync the two stations with the cable by following step 1 from solution 3.

Solution 5: Keep the Firmware up to Date

It’s another suitable solution to fix this issue. If you always keep your firmware up to date then it’ll help in preventing any software-related issues. Therefore, if this not syncing issue is connected to software, it’ll get fixed.

To Update the Firmware on Your Base Stations –

Step 1: Open the SteamVR program on your computer.

Step 2: Click on the dropdown menu.

Step 3: If there’s a firmware update available, you’ll be asked for connecting the stations via a micro-USB connection. 

Otherwise, select Base Station in Settings and click on Update firmware.

That’s it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What to do if my HTC Vive isn’t detected?

In this case, you need to perform troubleshooting by following these steps –

• First of all, turn off the base stations for a while, then turn them on again.
• Ensure that the base stations are installed properly. Check the mounted holders and cables to get fully assured.
• Try restarting the SteamVR program.
• If the problem persists, restart your computer and launch the SteamVR program.

Q. Is it possible to combine 1.0 and 2.0 base stations together?

Actually, it’s not. As they’re two different versions, they’re not compatible to get combined. Even the syncing methods are different for each base station.

Q. Can base stations be on the same channel?

No, they can’t be on the same channel. There’re 16 channels available for 2.0 base stations and each station has to be set to a different channel. 

Q. How much distance can be between the two base stations?

It’s recommended by HTC that the distance between two base stations shouldn’t exceed 5 meters or 16 feet. Moreover, the distance between the headset and each station should remain at least 1.5 meters or 5 feet.

Conclusion

That’s all about how can you solve the HTC Vive base stations not syncing issue. Apply the solutions one by one until you fix and get out of this problem successfully. If you’ve further questions or to let us know which solution works for you, knock us in the comment section.