If you are a PC gamer and own a PS3 controller, you may be wondering how to use it on Steam. Luckily, with a few simple steps, you can easily connect and use your PS3 controller on your PC through Steam. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using your PS3 controller on Steam, allowing you to enjoy a more familiar and comfortable gaming experience on your PC.
Step 1: Checking Compatibility And Installing The Required Software
Before using a PS3 controller on Steam, it is essential to first check whether your controller is compatible with the PC. The compatibility mainly depends on the type of controller you have and the operating system of your PC.
To check compatibility, ensure that you have a DualShock 3 or Sixaxis controller. These are the only PS3 controllers that work natively on Windows. Once confirmed, proceed with installing the required software.
To use a PS3 controller on Steam, you need to download and install third-party software called “MotioninJoy” or “SCP Toolkit”. These programs emulate the Xbox 360 controller, which is extensively supported on Steam.
MotioninJoy offers easy installation and configuration, while SCP Toolkit provides a more advanced and customizable setup. Both options have their pros and cons, so choose the software that best suits your preferences.
Visit the official websites of MotioninJoy or SCP Toolkit and download the software that matches your operating system. Follow the installation instructions provided, and make sure to restart your computer after installation for the changes to take effect.
In the next steps, we will guide you through connecting and configuring your PS3 controller to work seamlessly with Steam on your PC.
Step 2: Connecting Your PS3 Controller to Your PC via Bluetooth or USB
Connecting your PS3 controller to your PC is an essential step in using it on Steam. Here’s how you can do it:
1. **Via Bluetooth:** If your PC has built-in Bluetooth capabilities or you have a Bluetooth dongle, you can connect your PS3 controller wirelessly. Start by activating the Bluetooth function on your PC and putting your controller in pairing mode. To put your controller in pairing mode, press and hold the PS button and the Share button simultaneously until the light on the controller flashes. Then, go to your PC’s Bluetooth settings, click on “Add Bluetooth or other device,” and select “Bluetooth.” Choose your PS3 controller from the list of available devices, and it should pair with your PC.
2. **Via USB:** If you prefer a wired connection or don’t have Bluetooth on your PC, you can connect your PS3 controller using a USB cable. Simply plug one end of the USB cable into your controller and the other end into your PC’s USB port. Your PC should automatically recognize the controller and install the necessary drivers.
Note: Ensure that your controller is charged or connected to a power source to avoid any interruptions during your gaming sessions.
By following these steps, you will successfully connect your PS3 controller to your PC, allowing you to make the most of your gaming experience on Steam.
Step 3: Configuring Your PS3 Controller Settings In Steam
Configuring your PS3 controller settings in Steam is crucial to ensure a smooth gaming experience. Follow these steps to properly set up your controller:
1. Launch Steam and click on “Steam” located at the top-left corner of the screen. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings.”
2. In the Settings window, click on the “Controller” tab.
3. Under the Controller tab, click on “General Controller Settings” and ensure that the “PlayStation Configuration Support” box is checked.
4. Connect your PS3 controller to your PC using either Bluetooth or USB.
5. Once connected, your controller should appear in the Detected Controllers section. Click on it to access the controller configuration options.
6. Here, you can customize various controller settings, such as button mapping and sensitivity. You can also choose to enable or disable features like haptic feedback.
7. After making the desired changes, click on “OK” to save the settings.
Remember to configure the controller settings for each individual game in Steam to maximize compatibility and functionality. By properly configuring your PS3 controller settings in Steam, you can enjoy a seamless gaming experience on your PC.
Step 4: Testing The Controller In Steam’s Big Picture Mode
After successfully configuring your PS3 controller settings in Steam, it’s time to test your controller in Steam’s Big Picture Mode. This mode provides a user-friendly interface and allows you to navigate and control your games using your PS3 controller.
To test your controller, follow these steps:
1. Launch Steam and click on the “Big Picture Mode” button located at the top right corner of your Steam client.
2. Once in Big Picture Mode, connect your PS3 controller to your PC via Bluetooth or USB.
3. In Big Picture Mode, go to the “Settings” tab and select “Controller Settings.”
4. Make sure that the “PS3 Controller Configuration Support” option is enabled. This will ensure that Steam recognizes and supports your PS3 controller.
5. Now, navigate to the “Library” tab and select any game from your Steam library.
6. Start the game and use your PS3 controller to navigate through the game’s menus and play.
7. Ensure that all the buttons, analogue sticks, and triggers on your controller are working correctly. If needed, you can customize the controller settings further by going to the “Controller Configuration” option in the game’s Steam overlay.
By following these steps, you can confirm that your PS3 controller is successfully working in Steam’s Big Picture Mode. Enjoy playing your favorite Steam games with the comfort of your PS3 controller!
4. Step 4: Testing the Controller in Steam’s Big Picture Mode
Brief: After successfully connecting your PS3 controller to your PC, the next step is to test the controller’s functionality in Steam’s Big Picture Mode. This mode is specifically designed to make the Steam interface more user-friendly for controllers, allowing you to navigate through the platform and play games seamlessly.
To access Big Picture Mode, you can simply click on the “Big Picture” button located in the top-right corner of your Steam window. Once in Big Picture Mode, connect your PS3 controller to your PC and ensure that it is recognized by Steam. You should see the controller icon appear on the screen, indicating that it is being detected.
Now it’s time to test the controller’s buttons and joysticks. Navigate through the Big Picture Mode using your PS3 controller and ensure that all the buttons are working as they should. Try out the joystick movements to make sure they are responsive and accurate.
Additionally, you can customize the controller settings within Big Picture Mode to suit your preferences. This includes adjusting the button mappings and sensitivity to enhance your gaming experience.
By successfully testing your PS3 controller in Steam’s Big Picture Mode, you can be confident that it is working efficiently and ready to be used for playing Steam games.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With PS3 Controller On Steam:
When using a PS3 controller on Steam, you may encounter some common issues that can hinder your gaming experience. However, with some troubleshooting steps, you can easily resolve these problems and enjoy gaming with your controller seamlessly.
One common issue is the controller not being recognized by Steam. To fix this, ensure that you have installed the required software mentioned in Step 1. If the issue persists, try reconnecting the controller via Bluetooth or USB.
Another issue you might face is input mapping problems. If your controller’s buttons are not working correctly in-game, you can resolve this by configuring the PS3 controller settings in Steam as described in Step 3. Make sure to calibrate the controller properly and assign the correct buttons to their respective functions.
Connectivity issues can also arise. If your controller keeps disconnecting or has laggy input, try connecting it via USB instead of Bluetooth. Additionally, ensure that your controller’s battery is fully charged.
Lastly, if you encounter any other issues or error messages while using a PS3 controller on Steam, it’s recommended to visit the Steam community forums or the official Steam support page for further assistance. You might find helpful tips and solutions shared by other users who have experienced similar problems.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can overcome common issues and have an enjoyable gaming experience using a PS3 controller on Steam.
Alternative Methods For Using PS3 Controller On PC With Steam
Many gamers prefer using a PS3 controller for their PC gaming experience, but not everyone wants to go through the hassle of installing software and configuring settings. Fortunately, there are alternative methods available that can simplify the process and still allow you to use your PS3 controller with Steam on PC.
One alternative method is using third-party software, such as MotioninJoy or Better DS3, to emulate an Xbox controller. These programs translate the input from your PS3 controller into Xbox controller inputs, making it compatible with Steam games.
Another option is using a specialized USB adapter, such as the Mayflash Magic-NS or 8BitDo Wireless USB Adapter. These adapters allow you to connect your PS3 controller to your PC wirelessly, eliminating the need for Bluetooth connectivity.
If you prefer a wired connection, you can also use a USB cable with a built-in Xbox controller emulator, like the Brook Super Converter. This converter allows your PS3 controller to be recognized as an Xbox controller, making it compatible with Steam.
Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to remember to update your controller firmware and check for driver updates regularly to ensure optimal performance. So, whether you opt for software emulation or a hardware adapter, there are several alternative options available to use your PS3 controller with Steam on PC.
FAQ
FAQs
1. Can I use a PS3 controller on Steam?
Yes, you can use a PS3 controller on Steam. However, you need to take a few steps to set it up properly. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
2. Do I need any additional software or drivers?
Yes, you will need to download and install a third-party software called “MotioninJoy” to configure your PS3 controller for use on Steam. The software allows the controller to be recognized as an Xbox 360 controller, which is natively supported by Steam.
3. What if my PS3 controller does not connect to my PC?
If your PS3 controller is not connecting to your PC, make sure you have installed the MotioninJoy software correctly and that your controller is properly charged. You may also need to connect the controller via a USB cable for initial setup. Restarting your PC and reconnecting the controller might also help resolve any connectivity issues.
4. Can I use a PS3 controller wirelessly on Steam?
Yes, you can use a PS3 controller wirelessly on Steam, but you will need to have a Bluetooth adapter installed on your PC or laptop. Make sure the Bluetooth adapter is compatible with the PS3 controller and follow the software’s instructions to pair the controller with your PC wirelessly.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, using a PS3 controller on Steam on PC is a straightforward process that can enhance the gaming experience for those who prefer the feel of a console controller. By following the step-by-step guide provided, gamers can easily connect their PS3 controller to their computer and enjoy a seamless gaming experience with their favorite Steam games. With the increasing popularity of gaming on PC, this guide serves as a valuable resource for gamers looking for an alternative control option.