Tips and tricks for a better AR experience

  • Make sure your webcam is on (and properly installed). If you can’t see yourself in the camera window, right-click and go to “settings.” Click the camera tab, and then choose the type of camera you’re using (If your setting defaults to “DV video,” try “USB video class video” instead).
  • Make sure you enable pop-ups. On a PC, select to allow the pop-up if prompted. On a Mac®, you can hit command + shift + k.
  • Make sure you’re in a well-lit area. Remember that a broadband connection will always give you the best experience. And, if you really want to make the most of things, turn on the sound.
  • If you don’t have the latest Flash plug-in, you may need to download it: http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/
  • Make sure your webcam can always see the marker (by aiming the house icon at your webcam). You can turn the paper, angle it, tilt it, go left to right, get far away or really close to the webcam, etc., but the camera still needs to be able to see the house.
  • If you’re on a laptop with a built in webcam, and you’re having a hard time centering the piece, try angling your webcam down a bit.

Watch and see things mix ‘n’ match, switch out, and transform right before your eyes. To get going, follow these instructions:

Launch

You'll need the your zone ad with the house icon (a.k.a. marker), or you can print one now.

Turn your webcam on (and the sound if you choose), turn off pop-up blockers, and click the "See your zone in 3D" button.

Hold the paper up to your webcam, making sure the camera can always see the house.

Try moving the paper around. Angle it, turn it, tilt it, and move it closer or further away from the camera to see what happens.