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How to Make Your PS3 Controller Light Up

A standard feature on the Sony PlayStation 3 controller is that it lights up when turned on or connected to the console. Specifically, there are four LED lights on the controller's face, each assigned the numbers one to four. Although these lights may seem inconsequential, having them not light up can be a sign of trouble. If you are new to the PS3 and do not know how to operate your controller, learning how to light it up is the first step toward enjoying the console's many features.

Things You'll Need

USB cable

Instructions

Turning on the Controller
- 1
  Press the "Power" button on your PS3.
- 2
  Pick up the controller and press the "PS" button. This is a clear, plastic button with "PS" written directly on it, located in the center of the controller's face.
- 3
  Check the lights. Upon pressing the "PS" button, all four of your LED lights should flash simultaneously. This is a sign that your controller is charged and working. In two or three seconds, the flashing lights will revert to a single, solid one. The process is now complete.
Charging
- 4
  Press the "Power" button on your PS3.
- 5
  Plug the large end of the USB cable -- included with your controller -- into one of the rectangular USB ports at the front of the console.
- 6
  Plug the smaller end of the USB cable into the small, metal port located on the front of your controller. The four LED lights will start to flash for a few seconds and then turn into a solid light. This means that your controller is both connected to the PS3 and charging simultaneously. Always try this if the controller does not light up on its own.

PlayStation 3