Training Example: Vicon Motion Systems – Review the Data, Give Your Score & Compare to the Real AI Evaluation

[H2] Begin your Motion Capture Journey today

Find the right motion capture system for your projects.

BUILD YOUR MOCAP SYSTEM

[H1] Vicon Markerless Motion Capture: Available Now

Designed for game studios, film productions, and TV creatives

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[H2] Motion Capture Success Stories

Discover how motion capture can be used across different projects and applications.

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[H1] AWARD WINNING MOTION CAPTURE SYSTEMS
Motion capture for life sciences, entertainment, and engineering — trusted worldwide for accuracy, innovation, and performance.
Vicon has been a global leader in motion capture technology for over 40 years. Our award-winning systems combine optical and markerless motion capture, inertial tracking, and VR solutions to deliver the most accurate tools for capturing and analyzing movement. We specialize in motion capture for life sciences, entertainment, and engineering, enabling researchers, creators, and innovators to measure, understand, and bring motion to life.
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[H1] Trusted by Life Science

[H1] Trusted by Entertainment

[H1] Trusted by Engineering

[H1] Markerless Motion Capture

[H3] MOTION CAPTURE ACROSS A RANGE OF APPLICATIONS

[H2] Motion Capture for Life Sciences

Vicon delivers motion capture solutions for biomechanics, clinical gait analysis, rehabilitation, sports science, and veterinary research. Our advanced systems capture high-precision kinematics, seamlessly integrating with force plates, EMG, and biomechanical sensors to produce clean, reliable datasets for peer-reviewed studies.
With industry-leading accuracy and real-time tracking, Vicon empowers researchers and clinicians to drive objective treatment planning, optimize performance analysis, and advance movement science. Trusted globally, Vicon sets the benchmark for transformative life sciences research.
EXPLORE OUR LIFE SCIENCE SOLUTIONS

[IMG: Create AI Studio]

[H2] Motion Capture for Entertainment

Vicon provides state-of-the-art motion capture solutions for film, television, game development, and immersive experiences, bringing performances to life at the heart of storytelling. Our systems deliver real-time visualization for directors, high-fidelity mocap data for animators, and effortless integration with game engines and DCC workflows. Keep stages in sync with sound, lighting, and playback for seamless collaboration from previsualization to final production.
From dynamic stunts and sprawling crowd scenes to nuanced dialogue, Vicon streamlines production, minimizes rework, and ensures unparalleled creative precision for captivating, authentic results.
EXPLORE OUR ENTERTAINMENT SOLUTIONS

[H2] Vicon Motion Capture for Engineering

Vicon delivers advanced motion capture systems for robotics, drones, and autonomous vehicles, providing high-precision, low-latency tracking of position and orientation in real time. Engineers rely on Vicon to validate designs, conduct precise testing, and enhance performance throughout development cycles.
Scalable from compact benchtop setups to expansive flight labs and large-scale test arenas, Vicon ensures consistent, reproducible data, minimizing development risks and accelerating time to deployment for cutting-edge autonomous technologies.
EXPLORE OUR ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS

[H2] Markerless

Vicon’s markerless motion capture technology delivers precise, real-time tracking without suits or physical markers, revolutionizing motion capture for the entertainment industry. Tailored for virtual production, video games, live events, and digital character animation, it captures authentic human movement with unparalleled ease.
Seamlessly integrating into production pipelines, Vicon Markerless provides high-fidelity motion data, slashing setup time and boosting creative freedom for performers and production teams. Scalable and reliable, it empowers studios, game developers, and live entertainment projects with fast, reproducible results for stunning, production-ready outcomes.
EXPLORE MARKERLESS

[H2] Indie Stories: Episode 3

[H1] WILL IT MOCAP?

See how a small indie studio with big aspirations uses Vicon to push the boundaries of motion capture…

WATCH NOW

Software
Hardware

[H4] Shōgun for VFX
Learn More

[H4] Nexus for Life Science
Learn More

[H4] Third Party Integrations and PlugIns
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[H4] Tracker for Engineering
Learn More

[H4] Cameras
Learn More

[H4] Inertial sensors
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[H4] Devices
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[H4] Accessories
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[H2] Motion capture buyer's guide for Life Sciences

If you want to learn more about motion capture and understand if it’s right for you, then this guide will ease you through the process of getting started with motion capture.
You will understand the technologies, identify which is for you and learn the questions to ask to help you source your motion capture system.
We created this guide specifically for researchers, biomechanists, sports scientists and academics in Life Sciences and designed it to address your particular needs.

Read now

“Our use of Vicon solutions has always been reliable, precise and with super low latency which is really important for real-time applications.”
Gabriel Keller
Artanim

Home FAQS

[H1] FAQs
Read through our frequently asked questions below
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[H1] Hardware questions

Where can I find information about Vantage cameras?
Vantage has been replaced with the Valkyrie camera range.  For more information on Valkyrie go here.
If you need more information about a Vantage camera you own, please visit docs.vicon.com for more information.
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question.
Where can I find information about Vero cameras?
The Vero Optical family of cameras combine the benefits of affordable motion capture with the reliability that comes with Vicon’s four decades of experience.
Details on the Vero optical cameras can be found in the page below.
Vero Family
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question.
Which Vicon systems are supported in Nexus 2?
Before you install Nexus 2, note the following limitations on supported systems:
Nexus only captures data from Vicon systems (including Vantage, T-Series, Bonita cameras and units).
Nexus 2 does not support connection to the Reference Video System (Nexus Slave application).

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question.
What are the reference video options for Nexus 2?
Nexus 2 (Windows 10 configuration fully supported and tested) supports the following reference video options:
FLIR Blackfly S USB3 – supported via USB3 and Lock connection
Vue Camera – seamless integration via PoE
Bonita Video – seamless integration via PoE or Giganet

For the recommended and latest PC specifications, please refer to https://vicon.com/support/faqs/?q=what-are-the-latest-pc-specifications or contact Vicon Support
Nexus 2.13 does not support the use of Basler video cameras. To use Basler video cameras with Nexus, use Nexus 2.12.1 or earlier.
Basler camera – download the appropriate Pylon driver
Basler GigE(pia 1000-60gc, pia 640c and m) cameras Windows 10.

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question.
My cameras are not connecting into my Vicon software, now what?
There are a couple reasons as to why cameras will not connect into the software.  Below are some items to look at if you are encountering troubles.
1. Is the hardware on and connected to the computer? Make sure the Vicon connectivity device (i.e. POE+, Giganet or Ultranet) is connected to a configured network port. If you have not set up a network port please refer to the FAQ: How do I set up my network card?
2. Is the system in Live Mode? Please go over to the Systems Tab and make sure you are Live. This can be verified at the top of the 3D Perspective; it will either say “Live” or the name of the currently opened trial.
3. Is the Vicon Software being allowed through the Windows Firewall. To check – please see the following FAQ: I just installed the latest version of software but the cameras no longer connect when I run it. What can I do?
4. Do you have Anti-Virus installed? If so, is the active scanning on the Anti-Virus software turned off? The active scanning will disrupt communication between the computer and the cameras.
If the cameras are still not connecting into the software please contact support.
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question.
What is the latest version of Firmware?
Vicon Firmware Update Utility
The most up to date Firmware can be found via the Vicon Firmware Update Utility.
The firmware update utility provides a robust guided workflow that allows you to update your camera firmware more reliably.
When the utility is installed and started, allow it through the Windows firewall in order for it to communicate with the cameras and reprogram them.
Note: Starting other Vicon software during the operation of the reprogramming tool may interrupt the updating process.
New updated firmware versions are designed to load onto legacy hardware (i.e. T-Series/Bonita), but do not (unless specially stated) contain any specific updates for these products and are functionally identical to previous legacy firmware builds. The ability to load newer firmware onto legacy hardware is provided for convenience when updating systems containing a supported mix of camera types.
If you own a system comprised of only legacy hardware such as Pre T-Series and Bonita please contact Vicon Support
Mixed Camera Systems:
When running a mixed system please ensure that the Firmware is the same for all cameras.
The Firmware version should correspond to the newest generation of camera in your system.
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question.
How do I update the Firmware on my Vantage/Vero and mixed hardware?
A mixed or Vantage/Vero camera system needs to be on the latest firmware.  For version details, the FAQ: What is the latest version of Firmware?
If your computer is connected to the internet, the Vicon software will do a firmware check.  If a firmware update is needed you just need to click on the notification symbol and follow the instructions.  Otherwise follow the instructions below.
1. Please download the latest version of the Vicon Firmware Update Utility, extract the files from ViconFirmwareUpdateUtility_x.x.x.xxxxh.zip. Once complete, run the executable inside. This will install the Reprogramming Tool for the appropriate Firmware version on the computer.
2. Once the program has been installed make sure:
Vicon software is closed.
Vicon hardware is on.
Check your firewall; either disable or allow this program through the firewall.

3. Double click on the Vicon Firmware Update Utility to start the program. The program will automatically search for all Vicon hardware which can be updated. Click Next when ready.
4. A list of existing Firmware for all devices is now presented. You have the option to reprogram all devices.
This process can be slow.  Please do not interrupt the programming process.  Once the reprogramming is completed you will be able to go to the next page and close out of the programming tool.  If any cameras fail or you have further questions, please contact Vicon Support.
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question.
How do I update the Firmware for legacy hardware (Pre T-Series and Bonita)?
For a pure Legacy system (Pre T-Series and Bonita MX Hardware) Vicon hardware should be on Firmware 502.
1. Download the Firmware and extract the files from the Firmware_502.zip folder. Once extracted place MXFirmware_502.mxe in a location easy to find such as the Desktop or Downloads folder.
2. Make sure all Vicon hardware is turned on. Open the core Vicon Software (Tracker or Nexus).
3. Navigate to the System tab, right click on Local Vicon System and select Reprogram Vicon Firmware. In the new window, all Vicon hardware and current firmware versions is listed.
4. Click Browse and navigate to the saved MXFirmware_502. Once the file has been selected, check which devices need to be reprogrammed and click Reprogram.
The reprogramming process might take some time.  Do not interrupt the process.  If any cameras fail or if there are further questions, please contact support.
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question.
How do I update the Firmware on my Cara Logger?
The steps below explains how to update the firmware:
1. Download the “.tgz” file and save it in a known location. As default, when upgrading to a new bundle, CaraLive will open this location: “C:\Users\YOURUSER\AppData\Local\Vicon\CaraLive\Firmware” so preferably, save it in that location.
2. There is no need to decompress the file. CaraLive will run its package contents once it is selected as the new bundle to upload.
3. To install it in the logger, go to the “Actions” option on the logger you want to upgrade and click on it. You will then be presented with three other options. Select “System”.
4. Once in the “System” sub-option, select from the list of available actions the one that reads “Upload New Firmware…”. A pop-up window should appear.
5. As mentioned earlier, CaraLive will open the location where it expects the “.tgz” file to be saved. However, if you have stored the bundle file in a different place, point CaraLive to that folder and select the “.tgz” file.
6. Make sure you have at least 50% of battery before continuing and do not disconnect the power during this process. A warning message will appear, make sure you read it, understand it and then press “Yes” to proceed with the update.
7. CaraLive will show a progress bar and after the process is done, the logger will restart.
8. That’s it! Once the logger is up and running it will have the latest version of CaraBundle.
This procedure is only to upload new bundles. To check and modify already installed ones (because the logger keeps all installed builds unless specifically deleted), the user needs to go to “Actions>System>Manage Firmware…”.
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question.
What is Link Aggregation and how do I set this up in my Vicon System?
Link aggregation is used to describe various methods for using multiple parallel network connections to increase throughput beyond the limit that one link (one connection) can achieve. Link aggregation is supported in Tracker 1.3+, Nexus 1.8.5+, Blade 2+.
When setting up Link Aggregation ensure that you have the correct Network cards (Intel i340-T4 or the Intel i350-T4 cards) installed on your capture PC. Once you have the correct Network card(s) follow these steps:
1. Make sure your three network ports have fixed IP addresses 192.168.10.1, 192.168.10.2 and 192.168.10.3. A maximum of nine NICs are allowed (192.168.10.1 – 192.168.10.9 inclusive).
2. Connect the 192.168.10.1 and 192.168.10.2 ports to one Giganet/Power over Ethernet switch (POE) and 192.168.10.3 to the other Giganet/POE. You will need an extra cable connecting your Giganets/POEs.
3. Run Tracker/Nexus/Blade, set your workspace to Camera and select all the cameras in the System pane (you will need to expand Vicon Cameras). Please do note that there might be slight differences between the three applications.
4. Turn the Giganet/POE connected to 192.168.10.3 off then select all the cameras that just went red in the System pane.
Select the Destination IP Address drop-down and select 192.168.10.3.
5. Select the remaining (green) cameras then scroll down their Properties, select the Destination IP Address drop-down and select 192.168.10.2.
6. Turn the Giganet/POE connected to 192.168.10.3 back on. Select all the cameras in the System pane.
Save your System configuration.
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question.
How do I configure an External Trigger for a T-series system?
You can remotely trigger the Vicon MX T-Series system to capture data, based on the input signals an MX Giganet receives from a supported third-party device connected to the Remote Start or Stop sockets.
You must create your own cable to plug into the Remote Start or Stop sockets in the rear of an MX Giganet, using RCA plugs.
More details on how to configure a remote trigger can be found in Chapter 15 of T-Series GoFurther v1.3.pdf.
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question.
What is the total sampling rate of the Analog ADC Card on a Lock Lab, Lock+ and Giganet Lab?
The analog ADC card is a 64-channel device for generating 16-bit offset binary conversions from analog sources. The input impedance is 1 MΩ. The data sampling frequency is common to all channels; while it is independent of the camera frame rate, it is affected by the camera frame rate specified in Nexus. The maximum rate at which you can sample data via the ADC card is 192,000 samples/second (192 KHz).
[H5] No. of Channels
[H5] Max. Capture Frequency (KHz)
1
192
4
48
8
24
16
12
32
6
64
3
Each channel has a programmable gain, which can be set to +/- 10 volts, +/- 5 volts, +/- 2 .5 volts, or +/- 1.25 volts

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question.
How do I solve a Force Plate calibration file not loading into Nexus?
When you add a force plate in Nexus, you are also required to install the Calibration File into the appropriate dialogue box. The Calibration file generally comes with the device from the manufacturer. This can be a .Plt file or an .acl file for AMTI plates.
There may be occasion when the file located does not populate the drop down box on selection within Nexus.
In this instance, you may need to hand edit the file to remove any white space or extra characters, such as Commas and Carriage returns, in order for it to be read by Nexus.
Open the file in a text editor, and remove any white space and/or extra characters not required.

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question.
How can I measure Real-time Latency?
When thinking about latency in Vicon real-time data, it is important to remember that small amounts of latency are introduced at every stage of the pipeline. To most accurately track latency, it is important to be able to measure latency end- to-end over a multi-computer pipeline— starting with the physical motion event, capture and processing by the Vicon system, receipt of the 6-dof sample by a client processor, through the rendering processor pipeline, and finally to the data display.
One of our customers involved in real-time virtual reality came up with a clever set-up to measure latency at every stage of their processing pipeline. This testing method is described in general below.
“We built a custom external timing device to capture the start of a motion event and track the resultant motion sample through the system pipeline. Our latency measurement scheme uses the external timing device together with a manually propelled pendulum to correlate the real and tracked motion. The timing device consists of a 100-ns clock, 6 latched data arrays, and 3 serial ports. The pendulum has an IR emitter on the swing arm and an IR detector on the base. Vicon markers are attached to the swing arm so that its trajectory may be tracked in real time. The clock is started when the swing arm passes over the IR detector. Since this is a known point in space, an identifiable event sample will be generated by the Vicon system. Then any of our software, running on any computer, can send commands via the serial ports to latch the contents of the counter as the sample propagates through the system. This allows us to measure the latencies between different stages of a multi- workstation processing pipeline. A photo-sensor attached to the display screen will automatically set latch 6 when triggered, allowing us to measure the end-to-end latency. The stored timestamps may be read back at any time over any serial port to get a list of latencies.
These tests have been run while tracking different numbers of markers and objects to determine how latency increases with the number of objects tracked. (With the Vicon system, the latency appears to increase in a linear fashion as marker count increases.)”
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question.
How should you clean markers?
Cleaning Pearl markers:
Place them in a mild solution of hand soap and water and gently shake them.  Then rinse in clean plain water and let them dry.
Do not rub them, as this will reduce their retro-reflectivity by removing glass beads from the surface.
They should be handled with the hands as little as possible to reduce contamin

Home Markerless

[H1] VISUALIZE IDEAS INSTANTLY
WITH MARKERLESS MOTION CAPTURE
[H4] Maximize flexibility and speed with Vicon Markerless motion capture to empower smarter creative decisions early on.

Hear from our Customers

[H3] TRUSTED BY

[IMG: Markerless Beta logos]

[H5] Designed for game studios, film productions, and TV creatives, Vicon Markerless integrates with optical systems to empower teams to iterate faster, streamline workflows, and visualize motion in real time.

[H3] HEAR FROM OUR CUSTOMERS
“We use Vicon Markerless for pretty much everything at this point – previz, production and everything in between. We get unmatched flexibility. It allowed me to answer any requirement that came in from internal teams in the last six months. It has completely changed the dynamics, allowing creative teams to hop in and capture on the spot. Because it’s one integrated system of Markerless and Optical – we get unmatched flexibility. We’ve tested it with everything, and it just works.”
Joselito Duric, Technical Animation Director, Ripple Effect Studios
[IMG: Joselito Duric, Ripple Effect]

[H3] VISUALIZE, TEST, AND
BRING IDEAS TO LIFE
[H6] Empower greater experimentation and iteration during early stages of production.

Book a discovery call

[H5] “We use Vicon Markerless as a creative sketchbook, testing ideas instantly before committing to a full shoot. It shortens the feedback loop, giving directors a tangible hand in the previsualizations. This empowers our team to make smarter, faster creative decisions – driving better results.”

[H2] MAKE IMPACTFUL CREATIVE DECISIONS

[H2] Consistent real-time streaming and recording

Real-time animation precisely matches the recorded playback data.

[H2] Instant capture playback

Playback your capture in Shōgun Markerless and stream it into your game engine for enhanced early-stage interaction.

[H2] Interactive Shōgun post-processing

Optimize Shōgun data before FBX export by selecting specific frames to enhance pipeline performance.

[H2] Real-time hybrid mocap visualization

Capture and animate markerless performers and marked props in one environment with real-time review.

[H3] HOW FRAMESTORE ACCELERATE CREATIVE DECISIONS WITH VICON MARKERLESS
Explore their story

[H3] SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATE INTO EXISTING DATA PIPELINES
[H6] Integrate Vicon Markerless into your existing motion capture pipelines. Increase team efficiency with a single motion capture ecosystem across calibration, capture, data cleaning and proven pipelines.

Register for a Markerless Demo

[H5] “The new markerless system from Vicon has significantly accelerated our creative process, enabling us to reach results faster. We now receive mocap data much more quickly than before, which allows our artists to experiment with new ideas in a fraction of the time. This streamlined workflow not only fosters creativity but also enhances our ability to iterate efficiently and fine-tune performances.”

[H2] MAXIMIZE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

[H2] Real-time full body tracking

Machine learning leveraging human motion capture data with advanced, proprietary solving algorithms refined over years.

[H2] Efficient System calibration and monitoring

Maximize system uptime and successful captures with Active Wand calibration and proactive monitoring alerts.

[H2] Genlock integration supported

Prevent costly disruptions and reshoots with Genlock synchronized cameras.

[H2] Data-cleaning tool suite

A comprehensive suite of clean-up tools for both manual and automated data cleaning.

[H3] HOW DIMENSION STREAMLINED VIRTUAL PRODUCTION WITH VICON MARKERLESS
Explore their story

[H3] CAPTURE MULTIPLE PERFORMERS AND PROPS
[H6] Vicon introduces a markerless volume that enables optical systems of any scale to deliver on agile, creative demands. Capture performances with props in a single real-time 3D mocap environment. Make ideation and iteration at scale, easier than ever before.

Register for a Markerless Demo

[H5] “At Dimension, we’re all about streamlining the filmmaking process, and Vicon’s Markerless system lets us iterate quickly. It’s all happening in real time, capturing performance nuance while blending perfectly with our existing tracking setup for props and cameras. That allows us to get the best of both worlds.”

[H2] ONE STAGE WITH ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

[H2] Capture unmarked people with marked props

Capture people and props in one real-time 3D mocap environment.

[H2] Compatibility with Vicon Optical Camera Systems

Vicon Markerless and Vanguard cameras are fully compatible with supported Vicon Optical systems.

[H2] Established motion capture pipelines

Seamlessly integrate Markerless capture into your existing Motion Capture workflows.

[H2] Scalable functionality with optical mocap systems

Expand your Markerless capture capabilities to include props and optical mocap systems.

[H2]
[H2] WHY GO VICON MARKERLESS?

[H5] Capture more motion with less friction

[H5] Rely on industry-validated pipelines

[H5] Capture multiple performers and props

[H5] Built on 40 years of mocap measurement

[H2] CUSTOMER VOICES

[H5] “Vicon’s Markerless Motion Capture is like magic – providing Gearbox incredible flexibility and speed in the development and storytelling of our games. Any one of us at Gearbox, including me, can quickly jump into our Vicon Markerless Motion Capture volume – even in our street clothes – to quickly get the data we need as we work to bring exciting potential future projects to life, including Borderlands!”

Randy Pitchford, Founder and President
Gearbox Entertainment

[H2] HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, AND SUPPORT

[H4] Purpose-built cameras for markerless motion capture.
Designed for the needs of machine learning computer vision with optimised range, focal length, resolution and frame rates.
Discover Vanguard

[H4] The high-bar for quality motion data
Shōgun software empowers studios of any size to capture the highest quality motion data whilst allowing for manual and automated control and data cleaning.

Discover Shōgun

[H4] One trusted
partner
Vicon Mocap ecosystems are designed by solution engineers around your production needs. Get support from an experienced and global team of motion capture specialists.

Discover Support

[H2] SIGN UP TO JOIN OUR NEXT MARKERLESS DEMO
We’re hosting live markerless demos each month. Complete the form below for more information on how you can attend and see it in action!

Home Applications Life sciences

[H6] Life sciences
[H1] THE MOST TRUSTED
MOCAP ECOSYSTEM
FOR BIOMECHANICS
Designed for life sciences at every level
CREATE MY SYSTEM

[H2] As trusted by:
[H4] We work with the leading Sports teams, Hospitals and Universities to ensure Vicon systems deliver the highest accuracy, flexibility and performance.

[H3] Vicon Motion Capture in Action
See how we help customers capture and use motion data to improve performance, reduce injury, assist in rehabilitation, and more.
Watch our video showreel or get in touch to discuss how motion capture can be used for your specific application.
Ask a question

[H3] Vicon Motion Capture Gives Athletes an Edge in Saucony Shoes
Take a look at how the Saucony Human Performance and Innovation Lab uses their Vicon motion capture system to improve athlete performance and shoe development with athletes like elite marathon runner, Malindi Elmore. You can read or watch the full story here.
See the full story
Watch the video

[H3] Deep insights into movement for sports, biomechanics, research and more
We provide the hardware – both optical motion capture and inertial sensing – along with the software, tools, devices and accessories to help you build your best-in-class motion capture system. Get the best quality data from the gold standard in motion.
View brochure

[H2] MORE LIFE SCIENCES APPLICATIONS

Vicon’s motion capture systems offer unparalleled flexibility, designed to accommodate any skeleton type and analyze the movement of various species, from horses to sheep and even bees.
ANIMAL SCIENCE

Medical professionals of all kinds rely on Vicon’s advanced motion capture systems for clinical gait analysis and rehabilitation, providing invaluable insights into human movement.
GAIT ANALYSIS

Vicon leads the way in motion capture technology for biomechanics, delivering advanced solutions to researchers for tracking and analyzing both human and animal movement.
BIOMECHANICS

Vicon stands at the forefront of motion capture for sports science, with our state-of-the-art optical and inertial tracking solutions that cover every aspect of the discipline to provide valuable insight.
SPORTS SCIENCE

[H2]
FAQ's

What is motion capture (mocap) in life sciences?

Motion capture (mocap) in life sciences is the measurement of how a body—or any living organism—moves during a single action or a sequence of actions. By accurately recording this movement, mocap provides the essential foundation for understanding how the body moves and what mechanisms or forces are generating that movement.

How does motion capture work in medical and biological research?

Motion capture in medical and biological research uses cameras or sensors to precisely track and reconstruct 3D movement, providing data that helps scientists understand how and why living organisms move the way they do.

What are the main types of motion capture systems used in life sciences?

There are three main motion capture systems that are used in life sciences.
Marker-based: Passive or active markers are placed on anatomical landmarks so the system can track them and infer skeletal movement.
Markerless: Uses video cameras with no markers or sensors on the body; machine-learning models identify and track the skeleton directly.
Inertial: Inertial Measurement Units, or IMUs attached to body segments to calculate joint angles and overall movement.

How accurate is motion capture for tracking human and animal movement?

Motion capture can be highly accurate—often down to sub-millimeter precision for marker-based systems—making it reliable for tracking both human and animal movement; however, accuracy varies by technology, environment, and subject, with markerless and inertial systems generally offering slightly lower but still robust performance.

Is motion capture safe for patients, athletes, or animals?

Yes—motion capture is considered safe, as the technologies used are passive, non-invasive, and typically require only lightweight sensors or no sensors at all

What software is commonly used to analyze motion capture data?

At Vicon, Nexus is used to capture and process motion data, while ProCalc helps convert 3D marker positions into a meaningful skeletal model from which joint angles and other biomechanical metrics can be derived.

What are the limitations of motion capture in life sciences research?

Motion capture in life sciences provides precise movement data but is limited by accuracy issues, lab-bound setups, environmental sensitivity, participant constraints, high costs, complex data analysis, and its inability to directly measure internal forces or physiology.

How is motion capture data stored and shared for research purposes?

The standard format for storing motion capture data is the C3D file. While some companies use proprietary formats, C3D is widely supported across different systems, making it the industry standard for sharing and compatibility in research

“I don’t think I would have attempted what we’re trying to attempt with any other mocap company.”
Philip Rowe, Professor of Rehabilitation Science, Biomedical Engineering department, University of Strathclyde

“Without [Vicon]… we would have never seen these results. This is about really small hand movements, maybe even just a tiny tremble. It’s something you would never be able to capture on a regular camera.”
Lisanne Schroer, Phd Researcher, Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck College

“I think one of the great things about Vicon is its versatility – not only being able to do what it’s meant to do to capture the positions of the markers, but also being able to bring in a lot of different sensing streams, from all sorts of sensors.”
Professor Ken Loh, ARMOR Lab Director, UC San Diego

[H2] RESOURCES

Everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Buyers guide

Nexus, our life sciences software, has many powerful native skeleton templates for your use
Native Skeleton Templates

Nexus also enables you to build your own robust custom skeleton templates for reliable labelling
Custom Skeleton Templates

Vicon started in life sciences and developed its offering in partnership with these customers
Life Science Brochure

[H1] Theia Markerless
[H4]

By pairing Vicon technology with Theia Markerless capture we’ve expanded our tracking ecosystem, empowering Life Sciences users to gather data wherever and however they desire.
Opening up access to the developing world of markerless motion capture, Vicon enables you to explore this emerging solution alongside the high quality optical and inertial data gathered by your gold standard Vicon system.
See the Theia Markerless Integration

[H2] Watch

[H3] THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT VICON IN LIFE SCIENCES

[H3] VICON'S LIFE SCIENCES ECOSYSTEM

[H3] VICON LIFE SCIENCES SHOWREEL

[H3] SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Software
Tools
Cameras
Inertial

[H3] Software

[H3] NEXUS
Our renowned software developed specifically for the life sciences community. With Vicon you don’t get a one-size-fits-all approach, we tailor our products to your unique needs.
With it you can:
Trust your system to capture clinically-validated data
Carry out powerful analysis and modelling of data
Save time with highly customisable yet simple processing pipelines
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[H3] NEXUS INSIGHT
Our newest reporting tool built based on dialogue with our community. Nexus Insight simplifies reporting, saves time, and gives you control of your data, all within Vicon’s best-in-class motion capture ecosystem.
Whether you choose to use our automated reporting tools or create your own custom templates, Nexus Insight will bring clarity to your reporting, making it easier to visualize, interpret, share and compare your data.
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[H3] Tools

[H3] DOWNLOADS
Vicon provides a range of useful tools, utilities and information for our customers that are all fully integrated with our Nexus software. Visit our downloads page to see what’s available:
Models and scripts – e.g. Oxford Foot Model
Reporting software – Polygon
System setup app – Vicon Control
Third party plugins
Sample data sets
Utilities
SDKs
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[H3] Cameras

[H3] VALKYRIE
Valkyrie is the most powerful motion capture camera ever brought to market, offered with four different specs with four different focuses: resolution, speed, value, and strobeless.
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[H3] Inertial

[H3] BLUE TRIDENT
The next generation of our market-leading IMU, Blue Trident is a lightweight, easy to use, flexible and reliable inertial sensor. From elite to grassroots sports, the improved, form-fitting device can capture the highest load activities and provide immediate real-time analysis in the field.
Capture up to 200g with this dual-sensor inertial device and you immediately have access to data encompassing the peaks of the body’s performance, to measure activity, analyse improvements and chart recovery.
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[H2] GET IN TOUCH
Vicon motion capture is the most trusted motion capture system for biomechanics. Our team is happy to provide more information, answer questions and help you find the solution you need.