How to Troubleshoot Blinking Lights on a PS3 Controller

The controller for the PlayStation 3 is unique to any other previous PlayStation controller in that it is wireless. The controller is not physically plugged into the system, which means that you can still use it from any point in your room and you don't have to be a specific distance away from the PS3. Occasionally the controller will run into problems, which are often displayed to the user as a series of blinking lights on the controller itself.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Move closer to the system. If you get too far away from the PlayStation 3, the controller will not be able to transmit its signal to the system. This will cause the lights to blink and the controller to become unresponsive.

2. Recharge the controller. As the PS3 controller is wireless, it operates on an internal battery. If the battery becomes too low, the lights will start to blink, alerting the user that it needs to be plugged into the system to charge. Plug the controller into the system and charge it fully before attempting to use it again.

3. Turn the controller on and off. If the lights start to blink and you can't determine the reason, turn the controller off and then back on again. This will clear its internal memory, essentially resetting it. When the controller comes back on it will operate as normal, without blinking lights.

References

• PlayStation 3