What is needed:

• Pico 4 (Ultra) headset

• VR-ready PC or laptop

• KAT Gateway latest version

• The KAT VR treadmill is fully set up and ready to use.

• 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection

• For wired connection: USB-C cable or USB 3.0 to USB-C cable

Minimum PC requirements

• Operating System: Windows 10 or later

• Graphics card: RTX 2060 equivalent or better

Step 1: Prepare Your Computer

Before beginning, ensure your computer meets the minimum SteamVR requirements.

Install Steam and SteamVR

1. Install Steam: Go to the Steam website to download and install the Steam client.

2. Install SteamVR: Find SteamVR in the Steam store, then download and install it.

3. Run SteamVR: Open SteamVR at least once after installation to ensure the software is set up correctly.

Download and Install KAT Gateway

5. Download KAT Gateway: Visit the KAT website at kat-vr.com and navigate to the downloads page to get the latest version of the KAT Gateway software: https://www.kat-vr.com/pages/download

6. Install KAT Gateway: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

7. Run KAT Gateway: Open the application once installation is finished.

 

Connect the KAT Treadmill

7. Connect the USB Cable: Plug the USB cable from the treadmill's base directly into your computer.
   > Note: Do not use USB extension cables or hubs for stable connectivity.

8. Pair the Sensors: Use the KAT Gateway prompts to pair your sensors.

9. Charge the Sensors: Once paired, charge the sensors. The KAT Gateway should now show "Connected."

Step 2: Stream Pico 4 to Your Computer

Stream the headset's display to your PC to play Steam games using your Pico 4 headset and the KAT treadmill.

Install Pico Connect

1. Download Pico Connect: https://www.picoxr.com/global/software/pico-link

2. Connect your Pico 4 headset: Use Pico's official instructions to link the headset to your PC.

 

Step 3: Configure SteamVR and KAT Gateway

After connecting Pico 4, configure both platforms:

Run SteamVR

      1. Launch SteamVR: Open SteamVR and verify the status shows "Ready" (indicating VR device recognition).

Check KAT Gateway Settings

2. Open KAT Gateway: Navigate to the system interface.

3. Validate Versions: Confirm both Oculus Support and Steam Support display 1.0.0.x (not 0.0.0).

Enable KAT Plugin in SteamVR

4. Access SteamVR Settings: Enable the kat_insteam_executor plugin to integrate KAT devices.

Configure Game Profile

5. Select Game Profile: In KAT Gateway, choose your target game's profile.

6. Open Game Config: Click Game Config to adjust settings.

7. Verify Key Mapping: Ensure the walk action key matches the game's movement control (typically joystick input).

 

Step 4: Launch Game and Calibrate Movement  

Start the Game

      1. Access Library: Open your SteamVR game library.

2. Launch Game: Select and start your desired title.

Adjust Game Settings

3. Enable Free Movement: Disable default teleportation in game settings.

4. Set Direction Control: Configure movement to follow head orientation (where you face).

Calibrate Movement Direction

5. Perform Calibration: In-game, follow on-screen prompts to align movement direction.
   

 

 Experience seamless VR gameplay with Pico 4 and the KAT treadmill.

Game Compatibility and Supported Titles

 

Identifying Compatible Games

The KAT VR treadmill is designed to be compatible with virtually any game that supports "free locomotion." This means any game that allows your avatar to move around the virtual space using an analog stick or touchpad on your VR controller. The treadmill's software, KAT Gateway, translates your real-world walking into these in-game commands, providing a much more natural and immersive experience.

 

Here's how to identify compatible games:

• Look for "Free Locomotion": When browsing for games on the Steam store, check for titles that list "Free Locomotion" as a supported movement option in the settings or on the store page.

• Check the Official Compatibility List: For a curated list of games that have been officially tested and optimized, always refer to the KAT VR website. They have dedicated pages listing compatible titles for different platforms, including Steam.

• Consult Community Resources: The KAT VR community, particularly on forums like Reddit and Discord, often has user-generated lists and discussions about which games work best and how to configure them for optimal play.

 

Here are some games that you can play on the Kat VR treadmill with Pico 4:

• Arizona Sunshine 2

• BONELAB

• Undead Citadel

• Green Hell VR

• Into the Radius

• Gorn

• All-In-One Sports VR

• Zero Caliber VR

The list goes on—there are always more games to discover and new challenges to tackle!

 

User Experiences and Troubleshooting Tips

 

1. My KAT Treadmill Isn't Working with My Steam Game!

This is a very common issue, often due to a simple software or settings conflict.

• Check the KAT Gateway: Make sure your KAT Gateway software is running and that your sensors (waist and feet) are correctly paired and showing a "Ready to Walk" status. The Gateway app is your main hub for all device functions.

• Verify SteamVR Integration: Sometimes, after a SteamVR or KAT Gateway update, the integration plugin can be disabled.

  • Go to SteamVR Settings > Startup/Shutdown > Manage Add-ons.

  • Ensure all KAT-related add-ons are enabled and set to "On."

• Game's Locomotion Settings: The KAT treadmill works by emulating controller inputs. In your Steam game's VR settings, you must select free locomotion as the movement method. If the game is set to "Teleport" or another mode, the treadmill won't work.

• Game-Specific Profiles: In the KAT Gateway software, check if the game you are playing has a dedicated profile. These profiles are created by the KAT VR team and offer optimized settings. If one doesn't exist, you might need to create a custom profile and adjust the walk action key to "Joystick."

2. My Character's Walking Direction is Off

This can be frustrating, but it's usually a calibration issue. 

• Re-calibrate Regularly: It's a good practice to calibrate your device every time you start a new game or if your movement direction feels off.

• Calibration Process: Put on your headset, look straight ahead, and follow the in-game calibration prompts.

• Waist Harness Alignment: Ensure your waist harness is fastened correctly and that the back support is aligned properly with your body's center. Incorrect alignment can cause the tracking to be skewed.

3. I Feel Awkward and Unstable on the Platform

This is a classic "learning curve" experience for new users.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Walking on a low-friction surface while being harnessed is a new sensation. It's a bit like learning to ice skate—you need to get used to the sliding motion. Start with shorter sessions and in games that have a slower pace.

• Trust the Harness: The harness is designed to support you and prevent you from falling. As you get more comfortable, you'll learn to trust the support and move more naturally.

• Adjust Sensitivity: In the KAT Gateway app, you can fine-tune your walking and sprinting sensitivity. If you feel like you're moving too fast with just a slight shift, you can lower the sensitivity to match your comfort level.

4. My Character Won't Crouch or Jump Properly

This is often a settings issue within the KAT Gateway.

• Adjust Jump Threshold: The jump and crouch actions are triggered by your physical movements. In the KAT Gateway software, you can adjust the "jump threshold." Lowering this value makes it easier to jump, while increasing it requires a more deliberate, physical jump. Find the sweet spot that feels right for you.

• Vehicle Hub Placement: For users on the shorter side, the Vehicle Hub on some models may partially obstruct the track, making squatting difficult. Check if your model has an adjustable hub or if there's a workaround in the settings.

 

Community Support and Resources

Here are several ways to seek support if you find your problem is not mentioned above

First, always reach out to our official tech team for help:

 

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

E-Mail: Service@katvr.com

Business hours: Monday-Friday: 7 am-9 pm (GMT+8)

 

We also have a Discord community where you can share experiences and join discussions.

KAT VR community on Discord

KAT VR community on Reddit

 

If you need assistance outside of business hours, you can also explore our online resources for helpful guides, troubleshooting tips, and community forums. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you have the best VR experience, so don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We're here to support you every step of the way, whether you're setting up your KAT VR system, looking for advice on optimizing your gameplay, or seeking solutions to technical issues.