How to Sync a Controller to a Playstation 3 Console
To sync a PS3 controller with a PlayStation 3 console you will need a mini USB cable. Sony recommends using the cable provided with the system. If you have trouble syncing with a third-party cable, try using a different cable. Most third-party cables work well, but there are some that do not. Here’s how to sync a PS3 controller to a PlayStation 3 console:
What to Do When a PS3 Controller Won’t Sync
In some cases, you may try to sync your PS3 controller and find that it does not work. This can usually be fixed by resetting the controller and then attempting to sync it again. If it still does not sync after a reset, you may have a battery or hardware problem. Here’s how to reset a PS3 controller:
How to Connect a PS3 Controller to Windows
While PS3 controllers were designed for use with PlayStation 3 consoles, you can also use them with Windows PCs. To connect a PS3 controller to a Windows computer, you need to install several software packages and drivers from Microsoft and use a free program called SCP ToolKit. If your controller still won’t sync or turn on, it may be defective or the battery may be dead. The following frameworks, packages, and runtimes are required:
Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5 Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Runtime Microsoft DirectX Runtime SCP ToolKit
If you have Windows 7, you also need to download and install the Xbox 360 controller driver. You will also need a mini USB controller to connect the controller to your computer.
How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a Mac
You can also use a PS3 controller with your Mac. You must be running macOS Snow Leopard or later and have Bluetooth enabled. You do not need any additional software or drivers, but you do need a mini USB cable to connect your PS3 controller to your Mac. Here’s how to connect a PS3 controller to a Mac: Thinking about buying the Playstation 5 one day? So are we! Learn more about it and start saving those pennies.
