AAO VR Education
for Desktop
Practice on your Windows or MacOS computer
Practice on your Windows or MacOS computer
If you don't have a VR headset, you can still use the simulator on your laptop or desktop computer.
The desktop version is designed to give you an introduction to the environments and features you will experience in VR, and should be used as a basic orientation tool if you are not familiar with virtual reality or with ROP diagnosis and management.
Please follow one of the two links below to download the appropriate version:
Windows Users
Download the Windows installer, and then double-click on the file to start the installation process.
Click 'yes' to any pop-up windows requiring permissions to install.
MacOS Users
Download the macOS installer, and then double-click on the file. Follow the instructions on the window to complete the installation process.
You might need administrator rights on your computer and be required to enter your Apple password during the installation process.
Minimum Windows system requirements
Windows 10+
Quad-core 2.0GHz processor (Intel Core)
8GB RAM
Hardware Accelerated Graphics with at least 1GB dedicated memory
5GB spare storage space
Minimum MacOS system requirements
High Sierra 10.13
Quad-core 2.0GHz processor - Apple Silicon
16GB RAM
Hardware Accelerated Graphics with at least 1GB dedicated memory
5GB spare storage space
Fundamental Surgery Hub
The installer will add on your computer the Fundamental Surgery Hub and 'Touch' software required to support its functions.
To access the AAO VR Education app, double-click the Fundamental Surgery Hub icon, and use your Academy credentials to log in.
Sign into the Hub
You must use your American Academy of Ophthalmology account credentials to access the application.
If you are not an Academy member, you can still become a registered user by following this link.
The first time you enter the Hub, you are offered a virtual tour which reviews the Hub features including how to activate Offline Mode, access the Data Dashboard, and contact the Technical Support team.
Launch the Application
Once you are logged in, click on the ACTIVATE button to start the download of the simulator (this might take up to 20 minutes or more depending on your internet connection).
Once the download is completed, the START button will appear, and you will be able to launch the program.
Please note that the application runs in Full-Screen mode.
Offline Mode
To use the application without an internet connection, go to your User Profile page in the Menu options to activate Offline Mode. This will generate a 4-digit PIN that will allow you to sign into the application without using your usual credentials and while you have no internet connection. Keep in mind that you can carry out up to 15 sessions in Offline Mode, after which the system requires you to go online again to validate your login credentials.
How to use AAO VR Education for Desktop
The desktop version follows the same structure of the VR experience available on the headset. You can familiarize yourself with the basic steps before entering the program.
All tools and features are on the menu bar on the left. Simply click on the button for each available tool to start using it. The Camera View will change your position and point of view in the room and cycle through each available position.
You can use the Back and Next button on the instruction board on the bottom right to navigate through the steps of each procedure.
Click the Home button above the menu bar at any time to return to the main screen and exit the application.