Head-mounted displays (HMDs, or headsets) are synonymous with virtual reality although the idea was originally developed in the 1960's for remotely controlling robots. This concept was developed by Ivan Sutherland in the late 60's into the idea of the 'Ultimate Display' that would immerse the user in a realistic computer-generated virtual reality.

With the advent of LCD technology, HMDs have come a long way from their early cumbersome designs. HMDs are getting lighter, higher resolution and less obtrusive - to the point were there are now models that clip onto a normal pair of glasses. HMDs have also found uses beyond the stereotypical virtual reality applications. They are now used everywhere from dentist's surgeries for calming patients with the latest DVD movie to industrial plants where engineers view technical information on lightweight head-mounted viewers.

The guides below look at various applications of HMDs and assess the importance of certain features for specific applications. They also take a look at some of the products currently available from Inition.