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How to Troubleshoot a PS3 Controller

Sony's PlayStation 3 wireless controllers use Bluetooth technology to connect to the system. Sometimes, these controllers fail to work properly, or will not turn on at all. You may not need to buy a new controller if yours isn't functioning properly -- there are a few things you can do at home to troubleshoot your PS3 controller.

Things You'll Need

USB cable
Pin or paper clip

Instructions

- 1
  Charge your controller if it is not responding. Plug the controller into the PS3 via a USB cable. The PS3 must be on while the controller is plugged in for it to charge.
- 2
  Reset the controller when it is charged. There is a reset button in a very small hole on the back of the controller. You will need a thin object, such as a pin or a straightened paperclip, to get inside the hole and press the reset button.
- 3
  Sync the controller after you've reset it. Plug your controller in with the USB cable, and press the "PS" button to sync it.
- 4
  Plug in the controller with the system off if the system still does not recognize the controller. Power the system off and plug the controller in via the USB cable, and then power the system back on. As the system is booting up, it may recognize the controller as a device.
- 5
  Do a hard reset of the system if all else fails. Turn off the PS3 using the switch on the back of the unit. Turn it back on, and then hold down the power button on the front of the console for several seconds. When you hear three beeps, the system has reset.
- 6
  Plug your controller in and press the "PS" button to sync it once the system has reset. If the system still doesn't recognize the controller, you may need a new one.

Sony PSP