How to Use a PS3 Camera on PC
By Marshal M. Rosenthal
Updated September 28, 2017
A webcam allows a person to stand in front of a computer and visually communicate with the world. There are a number of companies that make webcams for computers, but PlayStation 3 owners who have the PS3 EyeToy have the advantage of a webcam that includes motion-sensing technology. The PS3 EyeToy camera can be used on a computer, provided that special drivers have been installed. The procedure only takes a few minutes to do, and it will not damage the EyeToy camera or the computer.
Click the Windows "Start" menu, select "Control Panel," choose "Hardware and Sound" and click the "Device Manager" link under the Devices and Printers section.
Plug the USB cable from the PS3 EyeToy camera into a USB port on the computer. Click "Cancel" if a dialog box appears.
Find the PS3 EyeToy camera in the Device Manager under "Imaging devices" with an exclamation mark by it. Note whether the PS3 EyeToy camera is listed as being the Logitech or Namtai model.
Download and unzip to the desktop the PS3 EyeToy camera driver that is appropriate for the model that was listed (see Resources).
Right-click on the PS3 EyeToy camera that is listed in the Device Manager. Select "Update Driver" from the pop-up menu. Wait while the hardware update wizard runs.
Follow the prompts to install the drivers. Browse to the appropriate PS3 EyeToy camera driver that was downloaded when the wizard indicates that it is time to do so. Click the "Finish" button to quit the wizard when it has completed the installation.
Restart the computer and use the PS3 EyeToy camera as a webcam on the PC.
Tips
A USB extension cable will allow the PS3 camera be placed farther away from the computer.
Warnings
There is only one correct way to insert a USB connector, so do not try and force a plug into a USB port if it doesn't go in easily.
References
Writer Bio
Marshal M. Rosenthal is a technology maven with more than 15 years of editorial experience. A graduate of Brooks Institute of Photography with a Bachelor of Arts in photographic arts, his editorial work has appeared both domestically as well as internationally in publications such as "Home Theater," "Electronic House," "eGear," "Computer and Video Games" and "Digitrends."