How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC

Getting your PS3 controller on PC wireless to work is a simple process that you can do on your own if you have all the right equipment. Generally, to get a PS3 controller on PC Windows to work, you need to plug the controller into the PC’s USB input and download a specific software that we’ll explain how to do. Even though most wireless PS3 controllers come packaged with a USB charge cable, PS3 owners can purchase a third-party charge cable ($1.50) if missing the component.

Here’s is a quick guide to connecting a PS3 controller to a PC, so you can start playing PS3 games on your computer without the mouse and keyboard. This process will allow you to use a PS3 controller on PC with Windows 8 and Windows 7. The process for doing this depends on if you want to use the controller wirelessly or with wired controller, but it’s essentially the same regardless of the controller.

Downloading the Better Program

You need to download the right software so your computer will recognize your PS3 controller. The best way to do this is by downloading software called Better DS3. After the software is downloaded, you just need to plug the controller in to start playing.

1. Go to the Better DS3 website and download the driver configuration tool.
2. After it downloads, open the resulting ZIP folder — titled “5.3”
3. Next, double-click the Better DS3 application to open the software.

Running the Program & Creating a Profile

After Better DS3 has been downloaded and installed, plug in your PS3 controller into the USB port of the PC. If you want to use the controller wirelessly, then connect the USB cable first to the PS3 controller, then the USB port of the computer. After the computer reads the controller, the device will appear on your computer.

After the controller is recognized, create a profile on your computer so the computer will know when you plug it in the future, this way eliminating having to keep setting up the controller every time you plug it in.

To create a profile, select the drop-down menu that is labeled “New” and select “XInput”. After that is complete, a new window will show you different options for customizing your controllers and how you want it to respond.

Syncing with Bluetooth

To sync you PS3 controller with Bluetooth, first you need to open the Better DS3 software and select “Bluetooth Pairing” button. Then unplug the charging cable connecting the PS3 controller to the PC. If the sync was done correctly, you can now game with your ps3 controller on PC Windows wirelessly.