Carnegie Mellon University

Adjust Headset and Locate Buttons

Please familiarize yourself with your Meta Quest 3 headset and controllers. This guide will walk you through proper adjustment and essential button functions to ensure a comfortable and successful VR experience.

Do not turn on the headset (yet). Thank you! 

 

Adjusting Your Meta Quest 3 Headset

Top Strap Adjustment

Gently pull the Velcro strap on the top of the headset to ensure it aligns properly with your eyes for optimal clarity and visual comfort.

Back Dial Adjustment

Use the dial at the back of the headset to tighten or loosen the fit. Twist it clockwise or counterclockwise until the headset feels secure on your head.

Comfort Check

The headset should feel snug but not tight—comfortable enough to stay in place during movement without causing pressure or discomfort on your face.

 Charging Port

Located on the left side of the headset, above the power button.

Charging Indicator:

  • While charging, an orange light will appear.
  • Once fully charged, the light will turn green.

Important:  Always plug in your headset after each session to ensure it’s fully charged and ready for class.

Power Button

Located on the left side of the headset, below the charging port.

Turning On/Off:

  • To Turn On: Press and hold the power button for a few seconds until the headset powers on.
  • To Turn Off: Press and hold the power button, until it automatically goes into "Power Off" mode or select it from the options.

Important: Powering off the headset allows for automatic updates to occur upon restart. Avoid merely putting the headset to "Sleep.")

 

 

Meta Quest 3 Controllers Overview

Your Meta Quest 3 comes with two intuitive controllers designed for natural interaction in virtual reality. Each controller features multiple buttons and sensors that enable you to navigate menus, interact with objects, and fully immerse yourself in VR experiences.

Primary Controller Buttons

A/X Buttons

The A button (right controller) and X button (left controller) are commonly used for selecting items, confirming actions, jumping, or interacting with objects in VR experiences.

B/Y Buttons

The B button (right controller) and Y button (left controller) typically function as "back" buttons to cancel actions, exit menus, or perform secondary interactions within applications.

Meta Button

Located on the right controller, this button opens the universal menu, pauses apps, or returns to the Main Menu. Always press this button to EXIT an app and return home.

Combined Button Actions

 Thumbstick buttons

Located on both controllers and serve as your primary navigation tool in virtual reality environments.

  • TAP forward/back to move (e.g., walk, teleport) or TAP left/right to turn.
  • Push down on the thumbstick to act as an additional button, often used for actions like sprinting, crouching, or selecting items.

Trigger Buttons

Located on the front (upper part) of each controller, these buttons are operated with your index fingers.

  • Primary function: Grab, select, shoot, or point at objects
  • Acts as a laser pointer for menu navigation
  • Essential for most VR interactions 

Grip Buttons

Found on the inside of the controllers, where your middle fingers naturally rest.

  • Press to grip objects and hold items
  • Perform context-specific actions like climbing or throwing
  • Often used in combination with triggers

You're Ready to Begin!

Quick Reference Checklist

  1. Headset is properly adjusted with top strap and back dial
  2. You know where the charging port, power button, and volume controls are located
  3. You understand the A/B/X/Y buttons and Meta button functions
  4. You can navigate using thumbsticks for movement and turning
  5. You're familiar with trigger and grip buttons for object interaction