> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.lookingglassfactory.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.lookingglassfactory.com/~/changes/b9fBkWdLSF9K8Hgxeaau/software-tools/looking-glass-model-viewer.md).

# Looking Glass Model Viewer

A user guide for the Looking Glass Model Viewer

{% hint style="info" %}
Download the Model Viewer [here](https://lookingglassfactory.com/software/model-viewer).
{% endhint %}

The Looking Glass Model Viewer is a new application (currently in alpha) that allows users to easily import and view 3D models on their Looking Glass displays. It has the current features and requirements:

* Support for the full lineup of Looking Glass displays
* Supports gITF, GLB, FBX, OBJ, STL, and PLY model formats
* 3D cursor controls
* Animation controls
* Load and switch between multiple models
* Requires connected Looking Glass device
* Supports Windows 10/11, and MacOS (Apple Silicon only)
* Currently in alpha and may have instabilities

## Setup

First, download and run the installers from the [downloads page](https://lookingglassfactory.com/software/model-viewer).

As our model viewer currently requires a connected Looking Glass display to function correctly, you next need to connect your device. See instructions on how to set up your hardware device [here](https://docs.lookingglassfactory.com/#looking-glass-displays).

Once your device is connected, ensure that [Looking Glass Bridge](/~/changes/b9fBkWdLSF9K8Hgxeaau/software-tools/looking-glass-bridge.md) is downloaded and running, and that your displays settings are correct - instructions on Windows are [here](/~/changes/b9fBkWdLSF9K8Hgxeaau/software-tools/looking-glass-bridge/display-settings-on-windows.md), and for Mac are [here](/~/changes/b9fBkWdLSF9K8Hgxeaau/software-tools/looking-glass-bridge/display-settings-on-macos.md).

When the above is complete, run the app and wait for it to finish launching the Looking Glass view, which may take several seconds.

## Using the App

To use the app, select the import button on the left panel. This will open a file browser. Select the 3D model from your hard drive you'd like to load.

<figure><img src="https://1101008898-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MWj8g-jOrSs315lrZFz%2Fuploads%2Fa1fkqpxuLpG39OfDzNMG%2FScreenshot%202024-08-05%20174408.png?alt=media&amp;token=32d44278-047c-4fe6-bc02-005735cec0da" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Your model will begin loading. When it is finished (assuming there are no errors) you should see the model appear on both your regular monitor and the Looking Glass display.

### UI Controls

The loaded model will be added to a dropdown on the left panel - selecting between the models here will change what model is currently active/displayed.

<figure><img src="https://1101008898-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MWj8g-jOrSs315lrZFz%2Fuploads%2Fv1wb187ohGDPBMLeZHkI%2FModelViewerModelDropdown.png?alt=media&amp;token=fd511607-cac8-4168-9749-0adfd56369b4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

If your imported model has animations, you will see a bar appear on the bottom of the UI with animation controls. The play/pause button will play or pause the animation, and you can change which animation is playing using the dropdown on the right-hand side.

<figure><img src="https://1101008898-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MWj8g-jOrSs315lrZFz%2Fuploads%2FHeamMd2kGGXvkogmg2wF%2FModelViewerAnimationControls.png?alt=media&amp;token=56d1b540-c41c-45e7-a675-83f21692f75a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Additionally, there is a slider on the left panel to control the lighting intensity to adjust the visuals of your model.

<figure><img src="https://1101008898-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MWj8g-jOrSs315lrZFz%2Fuploads%2FXBZV3CHQDvWRxF3i46q3%2FModelViewerLightingSettings.png?alt=media&amp;token=6b6b6996-2f2c-475f-b8d0-306fe56df8e6" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Mouse Controls

You can manipulate the 3D scene with mouse input. The mouse input controls are as follows:

* Left click and drag to rotate
* Right click and drag to pan
* Scroll wheel to zoom
* Double left click to set focus (when interacting on the Looking Glass display only)

**We recommend using mouse interaction on the Looking Glass display** because it is more fluid and gives you better control over the focal point. To do so, move your cursor to the Looking Glass display - you should see a red 3D cursor object appear in the scene.

## Support

If you hit any issues, please contact our support team at <support@lookingglassfactory.com>.


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