How Do I Reconnect My PS4 Controller? A Comprehensive Guide
Experiencing a disconnected PS4 controller can be frustrating, interrupting your gameplay and pulling you out of the action. The good news is that reconnecting your DualShock 4 controller is usually a straightforward process. This article will walk you through the primary steps to reconnect your controller and provide answers to common questions that users often encounter.
The most direct way to reconnect your PS4 controller involves these steps:
- Power Off Your PS4: Completely shut down your PlayStation 4 console. Don’t just put it in rest mode; turn it off entirely.
- Connect via USB: Using a USB cable, connect your PS4 controller to the console. Make sure it’s a cable that’s known to work, as faulty cables can often cause connection issues.
- Press the PS Button: With the controller now connected via USB, press and hold the PS button in the center of the controller for about three seconds. The light bar should start to glow, and the controller should automatically pair with your console.
- Test the Connection: Once the light bar is lit, navigate the PS4 menu using the controller to ensure a successful reconnection.
If these steps fail to reconnect your controller, there are several other methods and troubleshooting steps to consider. Let’s dive into the details and address some common questions.
Troubleshooting Your PS4 Controller Connection
Sometimes, reconnecting your PS4 controller isn’t as simple as the steps outlined above. Several factors can cause connection issues. Here’s a breakdown of the common problems and how to tackle them.
Bluetooth Pairing Issues
If your controller won’t connect wirelessly, the issue might lie within the Bluetooth connection. To address this:
- Forget the Device: Go to Settings on your PS4, then navigate to Devices and select Bluetooth Devices. Find your controller in the list, select it, and choose the option to Forget Device.
- Restart the Pairing Process: Follow the initial reconnection steps listed above. This should initiate a new pairing between the controller and the console.
- Manual Pairing: If the above method fails, you can force a manual pairing. Press and hold both the Share button and the PS button simultaneously for about five seconds. The light bar on the controller will start to blink. This indicates that the controller is in pairing mode. Next, check the Bluetooth Devices menu on your PS4 to see if your controller is now visible in the list and then select it to pair it with the system.
Controller Reset
Sometimes, your controller might need a hard reset. Here’s how to do it:
- Locate the Reset Button: Flip your controller over. You’ll find a small hole near the L2 button.
- Press the Reset Button: Use a straightened paperclip or pin to gently press and hold the reset button inside the hole for at least 6 seconds.
- Re-attempt Connection: Follow the usual connection process using a USB cable, then test the wireless connection after unplugging the cable.
Low Battery Issues
A common reason for disconnection, especially if the light bar is blinking white, is low battery. Ensure your controller is charged by connecting it via USB to your PS4 or another power source. It typically takes around two hours to achieve a full charge.
USB Cable Problems
A faulty USB cable can prevent your controller from connecting. Test your connection with a different, known-working cable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that will provide a deeper understanding and solutions for PS4 controller connection issues:
1. How do I resync my PS4 controller?
To resync, turn off your PS4 completely, connect the controller with a USB cable, then press the PS button. If this doesn’t work, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices > Your Controller > Forget Device, then try the steps again.
2. Why is my PS4 controller not connecting?
A non-connecting controller can be due to a dead battery, a faulty USB cable, Bluetooth pairing issues, or the controller needing a reset. Try charging the controller, using a different cable, or performing a reset.
3. How do you reconnect a disconnected PS4 controller?
The primary method is to turn off the PS4 completely, connect the controller using a USB cable, and then press the PS button for a few seconds. If that doesn't work, go to **Bluetooth Devices** in settings and forget the controller then reconnect.
4. Why is my PS4 controller blinking white and not connecting?
A blinking white light typically indicates a low battery or that the controller is in pairing mode. Charge the controller, or perform a manual pairing as described earlier in this article.
5. What is the white light of death on PS4?
The "white light of death" refers to a PS4 console issue, not a controller issue. It signals a console freeze and requires troubleshooting such as unplugging the console for 60 seconds and restarting it. This is often due to **hardware failure or overheating**.
6. Can I update my PS4 controller?
Yes, the DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers can be updated via a Windows PC using the [Firmware updater for DualSense wireless controller] app. This is to ensure optimal controller performance.
7. What buttons do you press to reset a PS4 controller?
You must use a straightened paperclip or pin to press the recessed **reset button** on the back of the controller, next to the L2 button. Hold it down for 6 seconds, then release.
8. Why is my PS4 flashing blue?
The flashing blue light typically points to a software issue or a faulty power or HDMI cable on the console, not the controller. This is often referred to as the blue light of death.
9. What if my controller still won’t connect after all the above steps?
If you’ve tried everything and it still doesn’t work, consider contacting Sony support for further assistance. There might be a hardware problem with your controller.
10. Can I use a non-Sony USB cable to connect my controller?
Yes, you can use other USB cables, but make sure they support data transfer, not just charging. Using a cable that only charges can prevent you from pairing the controller with the console.
11. Is it possible to connect more than one controller?
Yes, your PS4 can connect up to four controllers simultaneously. Use the same reconnection methods for each controller.
12. Why won’t my controller stay connected while using it wirelessly?
This may be due to low battery, Bluetooth interference, or a faulty controller. Try charging the controller, moving away from other electronic devices that might interfere, or resetting the controller.
13. Can I use a PS4 controller on a PC?
Yes, you can connect your DualShock 4 controller to a PC via Bluetooth or USB. You might need to download additional drivers for full functionality.
14. What is the Pair button on the controller?
The PS4 controller does not have a separate "pair" button. Pairing mode is activated by simultaneously pressing and holding the PS and Share buttons. The controller then becomes discoverable on other Bluetooth devices.
15. Does the controller have to be fully charged to connect wirelessly?
While the controller doesn't necessarily need to be fully charged to connect, it needs to have enough charge to maintain a stable Bluetooth connection. Always ensure the controller has adequate power before attempting to connect wirelessly.
By following these guidelines and troubleshooting steps, you should be able to reconnect your PS4 controller and get back to gaming. Remember to keep your controller charged, use functional USB cables, and be aware of potential interference that can disrupt Bluetooth connections.