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Why Won’t My PS3 Move Controller Charge? A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing a dead PS3 Move controller right when you’re ready for some gaming action is frustrating. Several factors can contribute to this charging issue, ranging from simple fixes to more complex problems. Understanding these causes will help you troubleshoot and get your controllers back in action. In short, your PS3 Move controller might not charge because of a faulty cable, damaged charging port, issues with the console, or a depleted/damaged battery. Let’s delve into these and other potential culprits.

Common Causes for PS3 Move Controller Charging Issues

1. Damaged or Faulty USB Cable

The most common reason for a PS3 Move controller not charging is a faulty USB Mini-B cable. This cable is responsible for transferring power to the controller, and if it’s damaged or defective, the charging process will be interrupted. Check the cable for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires, bends, or kinks. Sometimes, damage might be internal and not visible. Try using a different, known-good USB Mini-B cable to rule out this possibility.

2. Damaged or Corroded Charging Port

The mini-USB port on the controller is vulnerable to damage and corrosion. Check this port carefully for any signs of physical damage. Over time, dust, dirt, and moisture can accumulate and cause corrosion, preventing proper contact for charging. If you see any signs of damage or corrosion, gently try to clean the port with a soft brush or compressed air. If the port is severely damaged, you may need to consider professional repair or a replacement.

3. Problems with the PlayStation 3 Console

The PS3 console itself could be the source of the problem. The USB ports on the console might not be functioning properly, preventing power from reaching the controller. Make sure the console is on and active (indicated by a green light on the LED). The PS3 cannot charge controllers when in standby mode. Try using a different USB port on your console to see if that resolves the issue. It’s also a good idea to try charging another controller, such as a standard DualShock 3, to further isolate the problem.

4. Battery Issues

The PS3 Move controller uses an internal lithium-ion battery. Like all rechargeable batteries, these degrade over time. If your controller is very old, the battery may simply have reached the end of its lifespan, leading to an inability to hold a charge. A completely dead battery or a damaged battery can also be the cause. If you suspect a battery issue, professional battery replacement may be needed.

5. Software Glitches

Sometimes, software glitches can prevent the controller from charging correctly. This isn’t as common as hardware-related issues, but it’s still worth investigating. Resetting the controller can potentially resolve this issue. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller (usually requires a pin or similar object), press it for a few seconds, and then reconnect the controller via USB.

6. Incompatible Chargers

While it might be tempting to use a phone charger or a wall outlet to charge the controller, this might not work. Most wall adapters lack the necessary data pins required for the PS3 controller to accept power. It’s always best to charge the PS3 controller directly from a PS3 console or a powered USB hub connected to a computer.

Troubleshooting Steps

Check the Cable: Always start with a different, known-good USB Mini-B cable.
Inspect the Charging Port: Look for any damage or corrosion. Clean it if necessary.
Try Different USB Ports: Use another USB port on your PS3 console or a powered USB hub.
Reset the Controller: Use a pin to press and hold the reset button on the back.
Test with Another Controller: Check if another controller charges on the same console and with the same cable.
Battery Evaluation: If none of the above works, consider the possibility of a depleted or damaged battery.
Check Charging Indicator: Observe the status indicator light while charging. The light should blink slowly while charging and turn off when fully charged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if my PS3 Move controller is charging?

While charging, the status indicator on the controller will blink slowly. Once charging is complete, the status indicator will turn off. If the indicator does not blink, the controller is not charging.

2. How long does it take to charge a PS3 Move controller?

Initially, it may take about 4-6 hours for a full charge. After that, a full charge usually takes around 2-4 hours, depending on how depleted the battery is.

3. Can I charge my PS3 Move controller with a phone charger?

Generally, it’s not recommended to use a standard phone charger. Wall adapters lack the data pins that the controller needs to accept charge. Using the PS3 console or a powered USB hub connected to a computer is usually more reliable.

4. Does the PS3 console need to be on to charge the controllers?

Yes, the PS3 console needs to be on and active (green light on the LED) to charge controllers. The console will not charge controllers while in standby mode.

5. What does the light on the PS3 controller mean while charging?

When charging, the light on the PS3 controller will flash red. When the controller is fully charged, the light will turn to a solid red. For the move controller it will slowly flash and go out when fully charged.

6. What type of cable does the PS3 Move controller use for charging?

The PS3 Move controller uses a USB Mini-B cable for charging, not to be confused with the Micro-USB cable used for PS4 controllers.

7. How do I reset my PS3 Move controller?

Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller. Use a pin or similar tool to press and hold the reset button for a few seconds. Then, reconnect the controller via USB.

8. Can I use a PS3 Move controller on a PS4?

Yes, PS3 Move controllers are compatible with the PS4. However, PS4 Move controllers will not work on the PS3 due to the port difference.

9. How do I connect my PS Move controller without a cable?

You’ll need to use a connected controller or a keyboard to put your PS4 into pairing mode. Go to “Settings” → “Devices” → “Bluetooth Devices”. Then, press the “SHARE” and PlayStation buttons until the lightbar flickers on the controller you are connecting, and select the controller. For the PS3 this is not an option, it must be paired via the cable.

10. What should I do if my controller is drifting?

Controller drift can be caused by low batteries, dust, debris, or damage. Try cleaning the controller, using fully charged batteries, and if the issue persists, consider professional repairs. Soft and hard resets of the controller may also help.

11. Are PlayStation Move controllers rechargeable?

Yes, the PlayStation Move controllers use a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

12. Why is my status indicator not blinking when charging?

If the status indicator is not blinking, it likely means the controller is not receiving power. Try another cable, USB port, or check the controller’s charging port for damage.

13. Can I charge two PS3 Move controllers at the same time?

Yes, using a dual charging dock or by connecting two controllers to the PS3 console or a powered USB hub, you can charge two PS3 controllers at once.

14. Does a factory reset fix controller drift?

A soft reset can sometimes resolve drift caused by software issues. A hard reset might be necessary for more persistent problems. If neither works, you may have a hardware issue.

15. What if none of these solutions work?

If none of the troubleshooting steps resolve the charging issue, there may be a significant hardware problem, such as a faulty battery or a severely damaged charging port. In this case, consider professional repairs or purchasing a new controller.

By carefully following these troubleshooting steps and FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to diagnose and resolve most PS3 Move controller charging issues, keeping you in the game for longer.

Why wont my PS3 move controller charge?