> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.optitrack.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.optitrack.com/system-maintenance/system-maintenance-guide.md). # System Maintenance Guide Regular maintenance helps ensure consistent tracking quality, minimizes downtime, and extends the life of your motion capture system. Following a preventative maintenance schedule is typically far more effective than addressing issues after tracking quality deteriorates. We recommend going through a daily or per-use checklist, a brief monthly inspection, and a periodic calibration verification, which collectively can prevent most common system performance issues. ## Signs That Maintenance or Recalibration Might Be Required * Increased marker swaps or labeling issues. * Reduced tracking accuracy or coverage. * Cameras that frequently disconnect. * The need for increasingly aggressive tracking settings. * Tracking blind spots that were not previously present. * The average residual has increased considerably. ## Daily / Before-Use Checklist * Verify that all cameras are connected and communicating with the software. * Confirm that [synchronization devices](/synchronization.md) and network hardware items are functioning normally. * Perform a quick tracking test to ensure that markers are detected and reconstructed correctly. * Check for any unexpected [environmental changes](/hardware/prepare-setup-area.md) that could affect tracking, such as moved equipment, new reflective surfaces, or lighting changes. * Validate system calibration, especially if: * Cameras have been moved. * Truss structures or mounts have been adjusted. * Environmental conditions have changed. * Tracking quality appears reduced. * Average residual has increased significantly. * Review calibration quality metrics and perform recalibration if necessary. ## Monthly Inspection ### Cameras and Optics * Inspect camera lenses and protective windows for dust, fingerprints, or debris. * Clean optical surfaces with an appropriate microfiber cloth when needed. * Verify that [camera mounts](/hardware/camera-mount-structures.md) remain secure and have not shifted position. * Confirm that [camera focus](/hardware/aiming-and-focusing.md#adjusting-focus) remains sharp throughout the capture volume. ### Cables and Network * Inspect Ethernet and synchronization cables for wear, damage, or loose connections. * Verify that all switches, power supplies, and network infrastructure devices are operating correctly. * Confirm that adequate ventilation exists around network equipment and workstations. ### Capture Volume Assessment * Walk through the capture area and verify expected tracking coverage. * Identify and remove new sources of occlusion where possible. * Check for reflective objects that could create unwanted marker detections. * Confirm that active and passive markers remain visible to multiple cameras throughout the working volume. ### Software and System Updates * Keep computer operating systems, motion capture software, and supporting components up to date according to your organization's validation process. * Test updates in a controlled environment before deployment on production systems when practical. * Maintain backups of [calibration files](/motive/calibration.md#calibration-files), [asset definitions, and important project configurations](https://docs.optitrack.com/system-maintenance/pages/KhJrv0dZJx3yYwdrmwCW#motive-user-profile-.motive). ### Marker and Asset Maintenance * Inspect markers for damage, contamination, or wear. * Replace worn markers that exhibit inconsistent performance. * Verify that rigid body definitions and skeleton assets continue to solve correctly after significant workflow changes. ## Annual Preventive Review Consider a comprehensive system review that includes: * [Camera positioning](/hardware/camera-placement.md) and coverage analysis. * Calibration validation. * [Network infrastructure inspection](/hardware/cabling-and-wiring/cabling-and-load-balancing.md). * Software review. * Workflow and operator training refresh. * Review of system expansion or optimization opportunities. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.optitrack.com/system-maintenance/system-maintenance-guide.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.