Many users find their DS4Windows controllers inexplicably shutting down after disconnecting from their PCs. This frustrating issue can disrupt gameplay and overall functionality. This comprehensive guide will help you diagnose and resolve this problem, ensuring your DualShock 4 controller remains consistently reliable.
Understanding the Problem: Why Does My DS4Windows Controller Turn Off?
The primary reason your DS4Windows controller powers down upon disconnection is usually related to power management settings. The controller relies on the USB connection for power, and when unplugged, it abruptly loses its power source. While DS4Windows itself doesn't inherently cause this, its interaction with Windows' power settings can create this problem.
Other potential culprits include:
- Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupted DS4Windows drivers can lead to unexpected behavior, including power-down issues.
- Battery Problems: Although less common, a faulty or low battery in your DualShock 4 controller can also contribute to the problem. A fully charged battery should ideally mitigate this.
- DS4Windows Configuration: Incorrect settings within the DS4Windows application itself might be inadvertently causing this power-off behavior.
Troubleshooting Steps: Getting Your Controller Back Online
Let's systematically troubleshoot this issue:
1. Check Your DS4Windows Settings:
- Hide DS4 Controller: Ensure this option isn't enabled in DS4Windows. Hiding the controller can interfere with its power management.
- Power Management: Carefully review all power-related settings within DS4Windows. Experiment with different options to see if any setting directly impacts the controller's behavior upon disconnection. Look for options related to sleep or power saving modes.
- Reinstall DS4Windows: A clean reinstall of DS4Windows can often resolve driver conflicts and configuration issues. Remember to uninstall the previous version completely before reinstalling.
2. Investigate Windows Power Options:
- USB Selective Suspend Setting: This is a critical setting. Go to your Windows Power Options (search for "Power Options" in the start menu), click "Change plan settings," then "Change advanced power settings." Expand "USB settings," then "USB selective suspend setting." Set this to "Disabled" for both "Plugged in" and "On battery" power sources. This prevents Windows from cutting power to USB devices to save energy.
3. Examine Your Controller's Battery:
- Fully Charge: Ensure your DualShock 4 controller is fully charged. A low battery can exacerbate the issue.
- Test with a Different Cable: Try a different USB cable to rule out a faulty cable as the cause.
4. Update Your Drivers:
- Check for DS4Windows Updates: Make sure you're running the latest version of DS4Windows. Updates often include bug fixes that may address this problem.
- Update Bluetooth Drivers (if applicable): If you're using Bluetooth, ensure your Bluetooth drivers are also up to date.
Advanced Troubleshooting (For Persistent Issues):
If the problem persists after trying these steps, consider:
- System Restore: If the issue recently started, a system restore to a previous point might resolve it.
- Check Device Manager: Look in Device Manager for any errors or conflicts related to your controller or USB devices.
- Clean Boot: Perform a clean boot of Windows to rule out software conflicts.
By systematically working through these steps, you should be able to identify and fix the root cause of your DS4Windows controller turning off when unplugged. Remember to test your controller after each step to see if the problem is resolved. Good luck, and happy gaming!
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