To use the Sixaxis, Navigation, DualShock 3 & 4 controllers, you must first pair them to the device you would like to use them with. This must be done with a Mini-USB cable and PC running windows. To do this, first download and install the setup program below and follow the instructions. Once installed. The Wireless Controller (SCPH-98040/CECHZC1) (trademarked “SIXAXIS”) is the official wireless controller for the PlayStation 3 until it was succeeded by the DualShock 3. Its design is an evolution of the DualShock 2 (DS2) controller, retaining its pressure-sensitive buttons, layout and basic shape.

Do You Run XP, Vista or 7?

Did you know that you can make a Sony PlayStation 3 Sixaxis controller work on a Windows PC? All you need is the right drivers and it can be done. I’m running a Windows Vista Home system and got it working on my machine, and even played a game with it. This article will provide details on two different methods of how to make it work in either Windows XP or Vista.

NOTE:If you are using Windows 7, do not follow the instructions here, but rather, the instructions in this separate article located here: How to make a Sixasix Controller work in Windows 7.

Disclaimer

Before we begin, you should know that I have worked in the computer field for over a decade and have been using computers for another decade on top of that. I am very knowledgeable when it comes to installing hardware and software, so much so that I have certifications to prove it.

The drivers required to make the PS3 Sixaxis controller work on a PC are homemade and not officially licensed by Sony or Microsoft or anyone else, so it is at your own risk that you install them on your computer.

If you aren’t comfortable with that sort of thing, my best advice is to just go buy a game controller for your PC and not risk screwing up something. Continue at your own risk.

Tips and Reminders

Before you begin, make sure you power off the PlayStation 3 console by flipping the switch on the backside of the unit, next to where the power cable plugs in. If you don’t, you may turn the system on when you hit the PS button on the controller, and this could cause it not to work right on your PC.

I read several message board threads where people could not get the controller to work on their computer until they turned off the PS3.

Also remember that you have to keep the USB cable plugged in to make the controller work.

These drivers are for manual connection with cables, and not for Bluetooth connections. Don’t make the mistake of unplugging the cable while playing, because it won’t be wireless on your PC like it is on the PS3.

Sixaxis Controller Pc

Windows XP

Here’s the first method that I understand to work best in Windows XP, because it did not work on my Windows Vista system. I got my computer to recognize the controller, but it would not respond to any of the buttons.

Windows Vista

This is the method that worked for me on my Windows Vista system. I followed the simple instructions and was able to use the controller to play a game. This only works on 32-bit operating systems, which is what most people currently have.

That’s it! To make sure it worked, go into Control Panel – Game Controllers and you should see the PLAYSTATION(R)3 Controller listed with a Status of OK. Click on Properties and you should be able to test it by hitting the buttons or moving the thumb sticks around. It worked just fine for me on my HP desktop computer running Windows Vista Home.

Windows 7

These drivers were not designed to work with Windows 7. In order to use the controller with Windows 7, you will need to download a separate program and go through a different install process. This article explains everything you need to do and also provides a driver download link.

Links not working?

Should the links in this article stop working, just Google ‘PS3 Sixaxis drivers’ and the results should point you in the right direction. I hope that eventually Sony will release some official software for making the controllers work on a PC, because it would be an excellent selling point for the Sixaxis controller.

The Dualshock 3 is an upgraded version of the Sixaxis, the original controller for the PlayStation 3. It includes all of the features of Sixaxis, but also includes vibration support. The Dualshock 3 is wireless, but comes with a detachable USB plug, which you must use to connect to your PC. Using a Dualshock 3 on the PC is similar to using any other third party USB controller on your computer. The only thing required is drivers, which can be downloaded.
Download the ds3drv_1.02 driver to your desktop. This can be found in the Resources section.
Connect your Dualshock 3 controller to your PC with its accompanying USB cable.
Click the 'Start' button in the taskbar and select 'Control Panel.' Click 'System' and select the 'Hardware' tab. Click 'Device Manager.'
Click the + symbol near 'Universal Series Bus controllers.' Select the Dualshock 3 controller.
Click 'Update Driver'. Select the driver you downloaded in first step. It should be on your desktop.
Click 'OK.' Your Dualshock 3 will now work with any applications that support USB controllers.