Picture this: You’re finally home after a long day, excited to kick back and immerse yourself in your favorite game on your PlayStation 4. But as soon as you sit down and try to connect your controller, it refuses to cooperate. Frustrating, right? Well, you’re in luck!
PS4 controller connectivity issues can generally be categorized into three main groups – interference, hardware issues, and software glitches. Assess local devices connecting to Bluetooth, the condition of ports, and also the software version before you take further steps.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of PS4 controller connectivity issues and offer some expert tips on how to resolve them.
Solutions To Troubleshoot PS4 Controller Connectivity Issues
The first step to addressing the connectivity issue on your PS4 controller is to determine the cause. Once you’ve identified it, here you go with step-by-step instructions to fix them.
Troubleshooting Interference
Interference can cause your PS4 controller to have difficulty connecting or staying connected. Here are some steps to minimize interference:
Check Your Environment
Ensure there are no objects between the controller and the console that could block the Bluetooth signal. Also, be mindful of other electronics in the room, such as Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, or wireless headsets, which may cause interference.
Reconnect the Controller
- Turn off the controller by holding down the PlayStation button for 10 seconds.
- After it’s off, press and hold the PlayStation button again to reconnect the controller. This will establish a fresh connection, potentially resolving any interference issues.
Adjust the Console’s Location
If you’re still experiencing connectivity issues, try moving the console to a different location. This may help minimize interference from other devices and create a clearer signal path between the controller and the console.
Troubleshooting Hardware Issues
If interference doesn’t seem to be the problem, it’s time to examine the hardware. Here are a few ways to fix potential hardware issues.
Inspect the Charging Cable
Check the integrity of your charging cable. Damaged cables can cause connectivity problems and may not provide adequate power to the controller. If you find any damage, replace the cable with a new one.
Examine the Controller’s Charging Port
Inspect the micro-USB port on the controller for signs of damage or debris. Clean the port gently using a dry cotton swab or compressed air to remove any dust or dirt that may be hindering the connection.
Check the Console’s USB Ports
Make sure the console’s USB ports are in good condition. If you suspect a damaged port, try connecting your controller to a different one. If the problem persists, you may need to have your console professionally repaired.
Addressing Software Glitches
Software issues can sometimes be the culprit behind PS4 controller connectivity problems. Here are some steps to help you address these glitches:
Reset the Controller
Resetting the controller can help resolve software-related connectivity issues.
- To do this, locate the small reset button on the back of the controller, near the L2 button.
- Use a paperclip or a similar object to press and hold the button for a few seconds.
- After releasing the button, reconnect the controller using the USB cable and press the PlayStation button.
Update the PS4 Firmware
Make sure your PS4 system software is up to date, as outdated firmware can cause connectivity issues.
- To check for updates, go to Settings > System Software Update on your PS4 console.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
- After the update is complete, restart your console and try connecting the controller again.
Rebuild the PS4 Database
Rebuilding the PS4 database can resolve software glitches that affect controller connectivity. To do this, follow these steps:
- Turn off your PS4 completely (not in Rest Mode).
- Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps (about seven seconds).
- Connect the controller to the console using a USB cable and press the PlayStation button.
- In the Safe Mode menu, select “Rebuild Database” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Note: Rebuilding the database may take some time, depending on the amount of data on your console. It’s important to remember that this process won’t delete any of your saved data or installed games.
Additional Tips and Tricks
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your controller is still having connectivity issues, here are a few more tips to try:
Test Another Controller
If you have access to another PS4 controller, try connecting it to your console. If the second controller works without any problems, it’s likely that your original controller is faulty and may need to be replaced.
Perform a Factory Reset
As a last resort, you can try performing a factory reset on your PS4. This will erase all user data and restore the console to its default settings, potentially resolving any lingering software issues. However, make sure to back up your saved game data to the cloud or an external storage device before proceeding.
- To perform a factory reset, go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 > Full.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Seek Professional Help
If all else fails and you’re still experiencing PS4 controller connectivity issues, it might be time to seek help from a professional. Contact PlayStation Support or take your console and controller to a licensed repair center to have them assessed and repaired if necessary.
FAQs
Why Do My PS4 Controllers Keep Disconnecting?
There are several reasons why your PS4 controllers may keep disconnecting. One reason is that the controller is not properly paired with the PlayStation 4 console. Another reason could be interference from other devices, a faulty USB cable, low battery, or distance between the controller and the console.
How Do I Force My PS4 Controller To Connect?
To force your PS4 controller to connect, you can try resetting the controller by pressing the reset button on the back of the controller with a paper clip. You can also try connecting the controller to the console using a USB cable, then pressing the PS button on the controller.
Another option is to go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices on your PS4 and select “Forget Device” for any previously paired controllers, then try pairing the controller again.
Final Thoughts
PS4 controller connectivity issues can be frustrating, but with the right approach and a little patience, you can often resolve them on your own. Whether it’s interference, hardware problems, or software glitches, this comprehensive guide should help you troubleshoot and get back to gaming in no time. Happy gaming!
Sources
https://www.playstation.com/en-in/support/hardware/troubleshoot-dualshock-4/
https://www.lifewire.com/fix-ps4-controller-that-wont-connect-5076197
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrDpisc_iBM
https://www.drivereasy.com/knowledge/ps4-controller-wont-connect-solved/