Tobi 5 Eye Tracker - Troubleshooting and Optimization Guide for Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) on Steam

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for resolving common issues with the Tobi 5 Eye Tracker in Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS). Whether you're struggling with software conflicts, USB connectivity, or optimizing in-game settings, this guide covers it all. With step-by-step instructions and practical tips, you'll learn how to get the most out of your Tobi 5 Eye Tracker, ensuring a smooth and immersive flying experience

Ensure Proper Installation and Updates

1 - Keep Software Updated: Regularly check for updates to the Tobi 5 software and drivers. New updates often address bugs and compatibility issues, especially after MSFS or Windows updates.

2 - Reinstall if Needed: If issues persist, uninstall the Tobi Experience software and reinstall it. Use Revo Uninstaller Pro for a clean uninstall to remove any residual files that might cause conflicts.

Resolve Software Conflicts

1 - Uninstall Conflicting Software: Programs like OpenTrack, TrackIR, or VorpX can interfere with Tobi's functionality. If simply turning them off doesn't resolve the issue, use Revo Uninstaller Pro to completely remove these programs, eliminating any chance of software conflict.

2 - Disable TrackIR in the In-Game Controls Menu: Note that disabling TrackIR in MSFS will also disable the Tobii device. Consider this carefully if switching between devices.

3 - Adjust Settings in FaceTrackNoIR: If you're using FaceTrackNoIR, turn off TrackIR in the FreeTrack settings to prevent conflicts.

4 - Disable TrackIR in Device Manager: Go to Device Manager, locate TrackIR under "Human Interface Devices," and disable it. Reset the control scheme in MSFS afterward.

5 - Search and Delete NPClient64.dll: This specific .dll file, associated with TrackIR, can cause conflicts. Search for it in the C:\Program Files (x86) directory and delete it if found to prevent issues with the Tobii tracker.

Manage USB and Power Settings

1 - Use a Reliable USB Port: Connect your Tobi 5 directly to a USB 3.0 port on your PC, preferably one at the back for a more stable power supply. Tobii recommends using BC 1.2 ports (marked with a flash symbol) for optimal power delivery.

2 - Prevent Power Saving Interruptions: Adjust your PC's power settings to prevent USB ports from powering down. In Device Manager, under "Universal Serial Bus controllers," disable the power-saving option to stop your PC from turning off the device.

Wireless Device Management

Avoid Wireless Device Sleep Modes: Wireless devices like mice and keyboards can disrupt Tobi's connection when they go to sleep. For example, the Logitech G540 and G903 mice have been known to cause issues when used wirelessly. Either use wired peripherals or adjust power settings to prevent them from sleeping during your flight sessions.

Optimize In-Game Settings

1 - Calibrate Tobi Before Launching MSFS: Proper calibration through the Tobi Experience app is essential for accurate tracking. Do this before launching MSFS to avoid issues.
Adjust Sensitivity Settings: Fine-tune the head and eye tracking sensitivity within MSFS settings. This may require some experimentation to get the right balance for your preferences.

2 - Adjust Sensitivity Settings: Fine-tune the head and eye tracking sensitivity within MSFS settings. This may require some experimentation to get the right balance for your preferences.

Dealing with MS Store Issues

1 - Download Tobii Experience Directly: If you're unable to download or update the Tobii Experience software through the Microsoft Store, use this direct download link [tobiigaming.com]from an MS Store-approved source.

2 - Microsoft Store Alternative Installation: If you encounter errors such as 0x803FB005 while attempting to download from the MS Store, try these steps:

2.1. Reset the Microsoft Store by typing wsreset in the start menu and pressing enter.

2.2. If the issue persists, install the Tobii Experience app without using the Microsoft Store by following the instructions in this article: LazyAdmin - Install Microsoft Store Apps Without Store.[lazyadmin.nl]

2.3. Visit this website: Microsoft Store Download Link Generator.[store.rg-adguard.net]

2.4. Copy and paste this URL into the site: https://www.microsoft.com/sv-se/p/tobii-experience/9nk75kf67s2n

2.5. Switch the "RP" to "Retail."

2.6. Scroll down to find the latest version of the AppxBundle or MsixBundle and download it.

2.7. Install the downloaded software directly.

Addressing Common MSFS-Specific Issues

1 - MSFS-Specific Troubleshooting: Visit the Tobii Help Center for detailed guides on fixing issues specific to MSFS, such as connectivity problems and optimizing performance in-game.

2 - Restart Tobii Services: If the tracker fails to connect, restart the Tobii services through Task Manager to re-establish the connection without rebooting your PC.

Here's how:

2.2 Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

2.3 Go to the Services tab.

2.4 Look for services named Tobii Service and Tobii Runtime Service.

2.5 Right-click on each service and select Stop.

2.6 After stopping the services, right-click on them again and select Start.

This process re-establishes the connection without needing to reboot your PC.

Recommended In-Game Settings for Helicopters

These MSFS in-game settings have worked well for helicopters:

Eye vs Head Tracking Ratio: 0.85
Eye Tracking Responsiveness: 0.01
Head Tracking Sensitivity: Pitch/Yaw: 1.15
Center Stabilization: 0.29
Head Tracking Sensitivity: Roll: 0.95
Head Tracking Sensitivity: Position: 1.30
Auto Center: 0

Share Your Fixes

Contribute to the Guide: If you've found a fix for an issue mentioned in this guide, or for another problem not covered, please comment below to help update the guide. Your input is valuable and appreciated.

Although I won't be able to troubleshoot individually, these are the fixes that worked for my setup.

Tobi was mounted on the flexi mount on the bottom of my 34" ultra wide monitor and it tracks fantastically.