Motion capture FAQ
Noitom builds Perception Neuron inertial and hybrid motion capture systems. The answers below cover how the technology works, how PN Hybrid differs from an inertial-only suit, and which product fits a given job.
What is Noitom?
Noitom is Beijing Noitom Technology Ltd., founded in 2012. Under the Perception Neuron brand it builds inertial and optical-inertial hybrid motion capture systems: PN Hybrid, PN Link, PN Studio, and PN 3. The company reports customers in more than 50 countries and more than 20,000 systems shipped. Read the company introduction.
How does inertial motion capture work?
Inertial motion capture uses sensors worn on the body to measure how each segment rotates. It does not need a camera volume, so a performer can leave a fixed stage. Perception Neuron suits such as PN 3, PN Studio, and PN Link work this way. A general primer is the inertial measurement unit overview.
What is the difference between inertial capture, optical capture, and PN Hybrid?
Inertial capture measures rotation from body-worn sensors and can travel with the performer. Magnetic interference and positional drift are the usual limits, which is why PN 3 and PN Studio offer anti-magnetic sensing, and why PN Link stays wired when a take cannot drop. Optical capture uses cameras and holds position inside a calibrated volume. PN Hybrid fuses both, including mixed rigid bodies, so the suit keeps an inertial pose while optical data locks position. See also the motion capture overview.
What accuracy does Noitom state for PN Hybrid?
Noitom describes PN Hybrid as reaching sub-millimeter accuracy by fusing optical and inertial measurements. That figure is for the hybrid system, not a claim that every inertial-only suit matches it. Specifications for the selected model are on each product page.
Which Perception Neuron product should I choose?
PN 3 is the entry-level wireless anti-magnetic suit, with sensors for the body and hands. PN Studio is wireless, covers a large area, and targets high-dynamic movement and fingers. PN Link is wired for continuous recording. PN Hybrid adds optical tracking to inertial sensors. Project examples are in showcases. For a price, use Request a Quote.
How do I contact Noitom?
Email info@noitom.com or use the contact form. The office is on the 4th floor of the Zhongguancun Science Fiction Industry Innovation Center, Shijingshan District, Beijing. Hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00–18:00 EST. Software downloads are on the service page, and the support center is embedded below this FAQ.
