Downloaded the software and started to install. Was told that even though the HDMI cable was connected, to use a different port for best results. My laptop has 1 HDMI port, no more.
Continued to install. XBox controller would not sync no matter how many times I tried, put in new batteries, etc. Hopeless. Finally decided to skip the damn controller and continue.
Finished installing and connecting everything. And guess what? Audio, but no video at all in the glasses.
Sending this back tomorrow. Can't understand why they sell a "consumer" version if it doesn't work so frequently. For $500 I expect a hassle-free fun experience, not the headache I have now.
Did you try the compatibility tool to see if your laptop is even Rift compatible? Most laptops are not, because the HDMI port only connects to the Intel HD onboard graphics rather than the Nvidia GPU.
To use a rift or any vr for that matter will require troubleshooting pc issues. If you own a pc you know this to be true with MANY products built for pc. The good thing is most people on here or other forums are always happy to help. I completely understand your frustration I have been there many times back in the day. I assure you VR is not a waist of money it's a lot of fun. Try posting a question on the forums and see if someone can help.
In the future I recommend you build your own pc and. It buy a pre made one or a laptop.
I bought a laptop that advertised itself as providing VR.
I bought a headset from a company that said my laptop could run their headset.
To me, that's the end of the story. I emailed for support and got poorly written canned answers. I ordered an adapter to see if that will work with the HDMI but who knows. If it doesn't work this is going back.
Does the laptop have any other video output (such as DisplayPort)? It may be the the HDMI port does not connect to the 1050 Ti card. In general, laptops can be problematic but it's odd the compat tool said everything was OK so maybe there is a way to make it work.