Facebook Page

For all my Facebook friends:

I have been a user of this social network since 2008, and given the recent changes in the terms of service of the platform, I created a Facebook page with the main intention be able to separate my personal profile with my work.

This is my best effort to continue sharing with you the news of my work and I hope you like it as much as me.

https://www.facebook.com/MarcoRomero3D

Samsung Gear VR

Samsung Gear VR - Virtual Reality Headset powered by Oculus.

http://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/wearables/gear-vr/
https://www3.oculus.com/en-us/gear-vr/

I am pleased to announce the latest hardware addition to my 3D Design Studio. This device is designed to work with the latest Samsung smartphones and has shown great acceptance the public. With this new hardware I can guarantee once again the highest quality of content development for Virtual Reality, specifically on Android based Samsung Gear VR applications. Samsung GearVR was first launched on 27th November 2015 which is specially designed for SmartPhones by Samsung electronics in collaboration of Oculus.

Photographic reference:

Samsung Gear VR + Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge smatphone

Steelseries Stratus XL Wireless Controller

Samsung Level U Pro Bluetooth Wireless In-ear Headphones with Microphone

More pictures: https://www.flickr.com/gp/maromero/0cB1Pu

Recommended reviews:

https://www.engadget.com/2014/09/03/samsung-virtual-reality
http://www.cnet.com/products/samsung-gear-vr-2015
https://www.engadget.com/products/samsung/gear/vr
http://www.trustedreviews.com/samsung-gear-vr-review
http://www.ultravr.org/samsung-gear-vr-ultimate-guide

Related information:

Samsung Gear VR: Tricks And Hacks Guide
http://www.ultravr.org/samsung-gear-vr-ultimate-guide/

Problems with Samsung Gear VR Right Now and How to Fix Them
http://joyofandroid.com/problems-with-samsung-gear-vr-right-now-and-how-to-fix-them/

Additional VR Hardware:

- Intel Dual Xeon Server http://goo.gl/6qFKat
- 3D Desktop Computer http://goo.gl/WqiqBp
- Oculus Rift DK2 http://goo.gl/O9K6Pf
- Homido VR headset http://goo.gl/fCltxb
- Stratus XL Controller http://goo.gl/90s69J
- Kinect 360 Motion Sensor http://goo.gl/VVLG5r
- Kinect V2 Motion Sensor http://goo.gl/0D6NQ8
- VR Hardware: http://goo.gl/f22O9t
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti Superclocked http://goo.gl/bSbZkm
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Superclocked http://goo.gl/Yhh4fb

HTC Vive

HTC Vive virtual reality system

It is a real pleasure and a source of pride to announce to my friends, partners and the general public; that despite having faced several difficulties in the purchase and shipping to my country (Venezuela), it has been a great success the addition of new virtual reality system "HTC Vive". With the investment in this new tool, will allow to continue my developments for Virtual Reality, and once again continue offering the highest international standards.

More info: http://www.htcvive.com

Photographic reference:

HTC Vive Headset

Wireless controllers

Laser base sensor stations

HTC Vive Protectors:
http://maromero3d.blogspot.com/2016/12/htc-vive-protectors.html

HMD comparison: Homido, Oculus Rift DK2, HTC Vive.

More pictures: https://www.flickr.com/photos/maromero/sets/72157669273967110

  

Mamut Skull
http://maromero3d.blogspot.com/2017/03/mamut-skull.html

Vive Deluxe Audio Strap
http://maromero3d.blogspot.com/2017/07/vive-deluxe-audio-strap.html

Additional VR Hardware:

- HTC Vive Protectors: https://goo.gl/3vvSWp
- Intel Dual Xeon Server http://goo.gl/6qFKat
- 3D Desktop Computer http://goo.gl/WqiqBp
- Oculus Rift DK2 http://goo.gl/O9K6Pf
- Homido VR headset http://goo.gl/fCltxb
- Stratus XL Controller http://goo.gl/90s69J
- Kinect 360 Motion Sensor http://goo.gl/VVLG5r
- Kinect V2 Motion Sensor http://goo.gl/0D6NQ8
- VR Hardware: http://goo.gl/f22O9t
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti Superclocked http://goo.gl/bSbZkm
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Superclocked http://goo.gl/Yhh4fb

+ Info:

HTC Vive: Ultimate Tricks and Tips Guide:  http://www.ultravr.org/htc-vive-guide/
HTC Vive: The Ultimate Guide: https://www.vrheads.com/htc-vive
HTC Vive Has a Hidden Mechanism to Maximize Field of View:
http://www.roadtovr.com/htc-vive-hidden-mechanism-maximum-field-of-view-lens-to-eye-distance/
Easy Mods for the HTC Vive: http://www.doubtreality.com/blog/vivemods
Base Stations & VR Arcades: https://springboardvr.com/blog/base-stations-vr-arcades

Stratus XL Wireless Controller

Stratus XL Wireless Controller
https://steelseries.com/gaming-controllers/stratus-xl-for-windows-and-android

Was made for Windows & Android, which leverages the Microsoft XInput game controller API. With XInput, the Stratus XL will function just like a console-style gaming controller on Android. The Bluetooth connection will allow the user link to any SmartPhone and tablet device.

This controller has the familiar size and layout of console controllers; it features an 8-way directional pad (D-pad), two high fidelity, clickable analog joysticks, four face buttons and a total of four shoulder buttons, including two top shoulder buttons and two analog triggers. The Stratus XL also features four LEDs for player indicator and battery status level. For added convenience three center buttons allow easy navigation in games and Steam Big Picture Mode. Powered by AA batteries, the Stratus XL will deliver an estimated 40 hours of gameplay.

The Stratus XL Wireless Controller is the best choice to be used on VR applications based on Android. Stratus XL is my choice for VR developments based on Android apps to be used on Homido, Samsung Gear VR and Google Cardboard.

Size comparison: Stratus XL - Xbox 360 Controller

More Photos:  https://flic.kr/s/aHskAtjTEY

Reviews:

http://www.vortez.net/articles_pages/steelseries_stratus_xl_for_windows_and_android_review,1.html

https://afterpad.com/steelseries-stratus-xl-review-mfi-iphone-controller/

http://www.gamenguide.com/articles/17748/20141224/steelseries-stratus-xl-review-the-pinnacle-of-mfi-ios-controllers.htm

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/scienceandtech/hardware-reviews/15100-Steelseries-Stratus-XL-Review#&gid=gallery_5177&pid=1

http://www.androidauthority.com/steelseries-announces-the-stratus-xl-wireless-gaming-controller-for-windows-and-android-617164/

http://www.windowscentral.com/new-steelseries-stratus-xl-game-controller-works-windows-and-android-games

June 05, 2016

Homido VR headset

Homido, virtual reality headset

Website: http://www.homido.com/en

The Homido VR provides a low cost intro into smartphone-based virtual reality or 360º videos, and it’s more convenient than Google Cardboard. It is designed to hold a smartphone in front of your eyes so you can view VR and augmented reality content in the most immersive way possible.

HOMIDO - Original Design

The lenses are the most important part of any VR headset, and the Homido comes with three different cones to hold them in place, all made for different focal lengths (Adjustable focal lengths). On the faceplate there are two rotating knobs for adjusting the depth of view and IPD settings (Adjustable Inter-pupillar distance). Any device with a 5-inch 1080p resolution is recommended, but it’ll work with just about any phone, regardless of OS.

Homido VR is my choice as developer for any Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear apps. Unlike Cardboard, this is a solid but lightweight, complete with three lens fittings, a secure hands-free design and compatibility across most 5-inch smartphones.

More Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHskziRUTm

Reviews:

Comparing virtual reality headsets: Google Cardboard, FreeFly VR, Homido VR and Samsung Gear VR review.
http://www.gadgets-reviews.com/review/144-comparing-smart-phone-vr-headset-google-cardboard-homido-and-samsung-gear-review.html#ixzz4QlxzV87r

Solar Home system

A small solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) system can be a reliable and pollution-free producer of electricity for your home or office. Small PV systems also provide a cost-effective power supply in locations where it is expensive or impossible to send electricity through conventional power lines, even for use in emergencies.

Because of their modularity, PV systems can be designed to meet any electrical requirement, no matter how large or how small. A stand-alone home solar electric or PV system operates "off-grid" it isn't connected to a electricity distribution grid operated by a utility.

Accurately sizing the components of your solar electric or PV system helps ensure that your system will produce the amount of power you want it to produce. This is especially important for stand-alone systems, which are not connected to the electricity grid. Because PV is modular, you can always add to your solar energy collector should you need more power down the road.

Below I introduce the technical description of my "Solar Home system" that I have build in the apartment, for the generation and accumulation of electrical energy exclusively for computer use, internet and lighting, in case of emergency in order to keep working.

Hardware list:

1.- Solar panels.

2.- Charge Controller.

3.- Battery.

4.- Power Inverter.

5.- Cable.

6.- Connectors.

7.- Terminals - Boots.

8.- Power meter.

9.- Multimeter.

Specs:

01.- Solar panels:

Instapark® 30W Mono-crystalline high efficiency Solar Panel (x2)
http://www.instapark.com/solar-power-panels/30w-mono-crystalline-solar-power-panel.html

Instapark® 30W Mono-crystalline high efficiency Solar Panel

02.- Charge Controller:

Sunforce 60032 10 Amp Digital Charge Controller (Replaced)
http://sunforceproducts.com/product_details.php?PRODUCT_ID=152

Sunforce 60032 30 Amp Digital Charge Controller (Replaced)

Morningstar ProStar PS-30M 30A, Charge Controller with Display (12_24V)
http://www.morningstarcorp.com/products/prostar/

Morningstar ProStar PS-30M 30A, Charge Controller with Display (12_24V)

03.- Battery:

Duncan Solar Power SP-160-12 (160AH)
http://www.duncan.com.ve/pro_alternos_solar.php

Duncan Solar Power SP-160-12 (160AH)

04.- Power Inverter:

Accurate Tools - AT300P Power Inverter 300/600 WATT 12V (Pure Sine)
http://www.metco-electronics.com/AT300P/index.htm
http://www.ebay.com/itm/PURE-SINE-WAVE-POWER-INVERTER-300-600-WATT-12V-DC-TO-AC-/291010791626

Accurate Tools - AT300P Power Inverter 300/600 WATT 12V (Pure Sine)

05.- Cable:

10M 12AWG Solar Cable (Waterproof degree: IP67)
http://www.amazon.com/RENOGY%C2%AE-connectors-Connecting-controller-Renogy/dp/B00DGXGKWA


06.- Connectors:

MC4 Connectors (5 pairs)
http://www.amazon.com/Female-Connectors-Double-Better-Waterproof/dp/B00E0CFSZ6/

MC4 Connectors (5 pairs)

Y Type MC4 Style Branch Solar Cable Connector (x2)
http://www.amazon.com/Branch-Connector-Cables-female-double/dp/B00E0FIZTO

Y Type MC4 Style Branch Solar Cable Connector (x2)

07.- Terminals - Boots:

Shoreline Marine RedBlack Battery Marine Terminal Kit
http://shoreline-marinedevelopment.com/products-marineterminalsbatterykit
http://www.amazon.com/Shoreline-Marine-Battery-Terminal-Black/dp/B004LR5K30/

Shoreline Marine RedBlack Battery Marine Terminal Kit

Ancor 260350 Marine Grade Electrical Battery Terminal Boots
http://www.amazon.com/Ancor-260350-Electrical-Battery-Terminal/dp/B000NI3CH2

Ancor 260350 Marine Grade Electrical Battery Terminal Boots

08.- Power meter:

Floureon TS-836A Plug Power Meter
http://www.pcworld.com/product/pg/1354628066/detail
http://www.amazon.com/TS-836A-Energy-Voltage-Electricity-Monitor/dp/B00E945SJG

Floureon TS-836A Plug Power Meter

09.- Multimeter:

Uni-T - UT33C Series
http://uni-trend.com/UT33C.html

Uni-T - UT33C Series

More photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/maromero/sets/72157667540315981

"Sistema Fotovoltaico Autónomo" (Spanish) Resource links database:

https://sistema-fotovoltaico-autonomo.zeef.com/es/marco.romero

"Sistema Fotovoltaico Autónomo" es una base de datos web de enlaces, que es una plataforma abierta colaborativa donde se puede acceder a toda la información relacionada al tema de los sistemas fotovoltaicos, así como sugerir nuevos enlaces para compartir información relacionada: https://sistema-fotovoltaico-autonomo.zeef.com/es/marco.romero

Tips para mis amigos en Venezuela:

A.- El tipo de Panel Solar ideal es el fotovoltáico "Monocristalino" (celda hexagonal megra) que es el más eficiente. Los tipo "Policristalino" (azules), "Amorfos", "Arseniuro", "Teluro", "Diseleniuro" o "Tándem" no son tan eficientes (hasta la fecha).

B.- Lo más barato es construir uno mismo el panel solar, comprando solo las fotoceldas y armarlo!!! https://youtu.be/7urmHuOTp8k

C.- Para alimentar una nevera necesitas que tu inversor sea de 1.000 watios mínimo. Lo ideal es calcular primero la carga exacta (no todas consumen igual), para eso hay un aparatico llamado "Vatímetro" (Power meter).

D.- Para alimentar aparatos electrónicos, el tipo de inversor a utilizar debe ser "Puse Sine Wave" (Onda Sinusoidal Pura), ya que la electricidad debe ser uniforme. Los del tipo "Modified Sine Wave" (Onda Sinusoidal Modificada) son para cargas especiales y motores.

E.- todos los enlaces que he puesto con referencia a equipos en Amazon.com se consiguen más baratos en eBay.com comprando directamente al mayorista en China.

F.- Lo más difícil de conseguir puede ser la batería, ya que por su peso no es conveniente importar por courrier. En Mercadolibre.com.ve todavía se consiguen todos los componentes a buen precio.

G.- El tipo de baterías que se debe utilizar para sistemas fotovoltaicos son las tipo "descarga profunda" cuyo suministro eléctrico es uniforme. Las baterías para vehículos no son aptas por estar diseñadas para enviar la mayor carga eléctrica para el arranque (encender).

H.- Las baterías deben almacenarse sobre una tabla de madera preferiblemente (si le colocas ruedas mejor), ya que se descargan si las colocan directamente al suelo.