Setting up Kinect for Windows

To make sure your Microsoft Kinect for Windows sensor works well, follow these guidelines. (Note that some of these recommendations link to relevant Kinect for Xbox 360 information.)

• Make sure your computer is running Windows 7 and has the latest drivers from Windows Update.
• Center the sensor horizontally in front of your monitor or screen, or follow the setup instructions in the application.
• Place the sensor on a flat, stable surface, away from any edge.
• Do not place the sensor on a stereo speaker or vibrating surface.
• Do not manually tilt the sensor.
• Make sure that the sensor can tilt freely and that the front is not obstructed by power cords, computer cables, or other solid objects.
• Keep the sensor out of direct sunlight.
• To minimize possible voice-recognition issues, keep background noise low (for example, do not place the sensor near a fan, stereo speaker, or loud machinery).
• Keep the lens clean.
• If you are using a mounting accessory, make sure you mount the sensor correctly.
• If you're using your Kinect for Windows with a front projection TV, see Using your Kinect with front projection TVs.

Kinect for Windows requires the following:

• One of the following operating systems:
  
  • Windows 7
  • Windows Embedded Standard 7
  
  
• Hardware requirements
  
  • 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
  • Dual-core 2.66-GHz or faster processor
  • Dedicated USB 2.0 bus
  • 2 GB RAM
  • A Kinect for Windows sensor
  
  
• Software requirements
  
  • Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 Express or other Visual Studio 2010 edition
  • .NET Framework 4.0
  • Microsoft Speech Platform SDK v11 – for developing speech-enabled applications for Kinect for Windows

Have a question about your Kinect for Windows sensor? Go to the Kinect for Windows FAQ for the latest information and answers to frequently asked questions.

Download the warranty or review product safety information about your Kinect for Windows sensor.