Raspberry Pi: Turn the popular single-board computer into a cheap VR headset

While there are many practical applications for a Raspberry Pi, one project that utilised the single-board computer (SBC) as the basis for a VR headset caught our eye. Published by Andy West on element14, the project combines a Raspberry Pi 4 with a couple of CRTs. Specifically, West took the viewfinders from old camcorders. He also opted for the Raspberry Pi 4 not least because of its two video outputs, which allowed him to power each "eye" individually.

In addition to a motion sensor, the project also requires some plastic parts and cables among other components. The DIY headset not only supports the static display of 3D content but also head tracking as the video below demonstrates.

While the device will not match the power or performance of commercial VR headsets, West and element14 claim that there is no screen door effect. The software is customisable too, which is a bonus.

The project is available to view on GitHub, while you can watch an overview below of how West build the headset. Pricing for the project will depend on how cheaply you can purchase two old camcorders with CRT viewfinders, though.