Method for Adjusting a PS4 Gamepad: Straightforward Guide Including Problem-Solving Tips
Are you experiencing issues with stick drift or a stuck thumbstick on your PS4 DualShock 4 controller? This guide, co-authored by tech writer Travis Boylls, will walk you through the process of calibrating your controller on both your PS4 console and Windows PC.
Calibrating a DualShock 4 Controller on Windows
To calibrate a PS4 DualShock 4 controller on Windows, you'll need to use third-party software as Windows does not natively support full calibration for this controller. The most popular tool for this purpose is DS4Windows.
- Download and install DS4Windows from its official site or a trusted source.
- Connect your DualShock 4 controller via USB or Bluetooth.
- Launch DS4Windows and install the required drivers (ViGEmBus Driver is essential).
- Within DS4Windows, you can access options to adjust dead zones, sensitivity, and calibrate joystick inputs to ensure precise response.
Calibrating a DualShock 4 Controller on a PS4 Console
Calibrating a DualShock 4 controller on a PS4 console is simpler but less flexible. The PS4 has an automatic calibration system for its controllers. However, you can perform a manual re-calibration by:
- Ensuring the controller is powered on and connected to the PS4.
- Holding down both analog sticks simultaneously for about 30 seconds.
- After this, the controller's sticks will recalibrate their center positions to fix drift or offset issues.
Hard Resetting a PS4 Controller
If the above steps don't resolve your issues, you can perform a hard reset on the PS4 controller.
- Power off the PS4.
- Locate the pinhole button on the back of the controller (near the L2 button).
- Press the reset button for 5 seconds.
- Power the PS4 back on and reconnect the controller to the PS4 with a USB cable.
Troubleshooting Stick Drift
If the cursor in the calibration window is jittering or won't move properly, your controller may have stick drift and may need to be repaired or replaced. In such cases, consider contacting Sony PlayStation support or buying a new controller if it is not under warranty.
Summary
| Platform | Calibration Method | Notes | |-------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------| | Windows PC | Use DS4Windows software to calibrate sticks, buttons, sensitivities | Requires installation of drivers and software | | PS4 Console | Hold both analog sticks down for 30 seconds to recalibrate | Simple hardware recalibration |
This guide covers the main ways to calibrate the DualShock 4 controller on Windows and PS4. For finer control or diagnostics, community and some unofficial tools exist, but they are less commonly used or officially supported.
- To tackle problems with gadgets like smartphones or gaming equipment such as the PS4 DualShock 4 controller, there are several resources available, including technology-focused websites and forums that provide tutorials on how to calibrate and troubleshoot the devices.
- A set of household gadgets, including smartphones and gaming consoles like the PS4, can greatly improve the overall quality of life at home by providing entertainment, communication, and productivity tools.
- In the realm of modern technology, it is essential to know how to calibrate various gadgets, such as smartphones and gaming controllers, to ensure optimal performance and fix potential issues like stick drift or stuck thumbsticks.