Many users experience frustrating issues when connecting their DualShock 4 controllers to their PCs using DS4Windows. A common problem is that everything else on their computer freezes or stops working after plugging in the controller. This isn't a problem with the controller itself, but rather a conflict with drivers or system settings. Let's troubleshoot this annoying issue together.
Identifying the Problem: Why is My PC Freezing?
This "everything stops working" scenario usually points to a driver conflict. When you plug in your PS4 controller, Windows might be trying to install or use a conflicting driver, causing system instability. This is especially true if you have multiple controllers or input devices connected.
Common Culprits:
- Conflicting Drivers: Outdated, corrupted, or conflicting drivers for your controller or other input devices can wreak havoc.
- Power Management Issues: Insufficient power to the USB port can lead to instability.
- DS4Windows Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings within the DS4Windows application itself can sometimes trigger these problems.
- Background Processes: Resource-intensive programs running in the background might exacerbate the issue when additional input is introduced.
Troubleshooting Steps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's systematically resolve this problem. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Restart Your Computer: The Simple Fix
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. A quick restart often clears temporary glitches and resolves minor software conflicts.
2. Check Your USB Ports and Connections
- Try Different Ports: Test different USB ports on your computer. Some ports might provide more power or have better stability than others.
- Ensure Secure Connections: Make sure the controller and the USB cable are securely plugged in at both ends. A loose connection can cause intermittent issues.
- Try a Different Cable: If possible, try using a different USB cable to rule out cable problems.
3. Update or Reinstall DS4Windows
- Update: Ensure you're running the latest version of DS4Windows. Check the official website (Note: I cannot provide direct links to official websites as per instructions) for updates.
- Reinstall: If updating doesn't solve the problem, completely uninstall DS4Windows and then reinstall it from a fresh download.
4. Update Your Device Drivers: The Critical Step
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a major source of this problem. Here's how to update:
- Device Manager: Open Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar).
- Locate HID-compliant game controller: Expand the "Human Interface Devices" section and look for entries related to your controller (likely "HID-compliant game controller").
- Update Driver: Right-click on the controller entry and select "Update driver." Choose to search automatically for drivers.
5. Disable Other Input Devices (Temporarily):
To isolate the problem, temporarily disconnect other input devices such as mice, keyboards, or additional controllers. If the issue disappears, it suggests a conflict between your devices.
6. Check DS4Windows Settings:
- Profiles: Try creating a new profile within DS4Windows. Sometimes, a corrupted profile can cause issues.
- Driver Selection: Ensure you've selected the appropriate driver within the DS4Windows settings.
- Minimize DS4Windows Features: Temporarily disable some DS4Windows features (like controller vibration or touchpad emulation) to see if they are contributing to the conflict.
7. Check Power Management Settings:
- USB Power Settings: Ensure your computer isn't configured to power down USB ports to save energy. This can interrupt the connection.
8. Run a System File Checker (SFC):
This command checks for and repairs corrupted system files that might be causing the conflict.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. Let the process complete.
If the Problem Persists...
If you've tried all these steps and the problem remains, it might be necessary to seek additional help from online communities dedicated to DS4Windows or consider contacting technical support. Remember to clearly describe the issue and the steps you've already taken.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you'll significantly increase your chances of resolving the "everything stops working" issue with your DS4Windows setup. Remember to always back up your data before making significant changes to your system.
