Obsolete, ad-heavy utility that connects multiple PlayStation controllers to PC but risks security issues
Obsolete, ad-heavy utility that connects multiple PlayStation controllers to PC but risks security issues
Vote (690 votes)
Program license Free
Developer MotioninJoy
Version 0.7.1001
Works under Windows
Vote
(690 votes)
Developer
MotioninJoy
Works under
Windows
Program license
Free
Version
0.7.1001
Pros
- Enables the connection of games controllers, especially PlayStation Dual-Shock controllers, to the PC for use in gaming, rather than trying to navigate using the computer keyboard
Cons
- The program has been connected to many issues affecting players' computers, from minor glitches to serious problems with computer registries and even with causing problems with the connected controllers
- The problem is obsolete and not available any more
DS3 Tool is a now-obsolete program that enables players to connect games console controllers to their PCs in order to enjoy the full gaming experience. The application allows up to four controllers to be connected at one time, using USB and/ or Bluetooth connections.
The application must be downloaded and will only work with a live Internet connection. This, annoyingly, means that advertising banners constantly pop up on the interface, interfering with the operation of the software.
For some users, DS3 Tool works well, with no issues: all their controllers work perfectly, on and off the PC, and the computer suffers no ill-effects from the running, installation and even uninstallation, when necessary, of the software. But this is by no means a universal result. The above-mentioned advertising banners are impossible to get rid of, the need for a constant Internet connection means that the PC is at risk from hackers and cyber-criminals who could directly attack the computer or who could attach malware, spyware and viruses to the program to try and hijack the device or steal information.
There is a newer version of this application available now. It is called Better DS3 and has been hailed as a great improvement on DS3 Tool. The new version is available off-line and the interface is refreshingly advertisement free. This new version needs the same driver that operates DS3 Tool, but this is available separately to DS3Tool and once it has been downloaded the package works more efficiently to connect games controllers to Pcs.
To use the program, the player must download the software. Once it is installed, plug in the gamepad (this is also true if the connection is going to be mainly accessed via Bluetooth), then click the large 'enable' button.
Once everything is set up, there is a facility to test the controller. The player just needs to click on 'vibration test' and ensure that he or she can feel the controller respond by vibrating. If this test is performed successfully, the controller should be fully operational and ready to play all the PC games that the player can desire!
Pros
- Enables the connection of games controllers, especially PlayStation Dual-Shock controllers, to the PC for use in gaming, rather than trying to navigate using the computer keyboard
Cons
- The program has been connected to many issues affecting players' computers, from minor glitches to serious problems with computer registries and even with causing problems with the connected controllers
- The problem is obsolete and not available any more
Pros
- Use a PlayStation controller with your PC
- Easy to use
- Works with all DualShock 3 models
- Testing modes for responsiveness and rumble
Cons
- Barebones UI
- Doesn’t support DualShock 4 controllers
DS3 Tool is a Windows program that lets you use your PlayStation Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers while PC gaming.
For whatever reason, Sony never choose to provide Windows drivers for the game controllers that were sold for the PlayStation 3 console, such as the Sixaxis and DualShock 3. PC gamers who want to use a PS controller have to rely on a third-party solution. Many of these solutions are unreliable and difficult to use, but DS3 Tool has managed to distinguish itself due to how stable and easy to use it is.
DS3 Tool not only lets you connect Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers to your PC, but it lets you opt for a Bluetooth connection in addition to supporting the typical USB connections. This is great for gamers who don’t sit right next to their PCs. You will need an individual Bluetooth adapter connected to your PC for each PS controller you want to support, but the handshake and the stability once connected are both very impressive, so gamers who have this option should take advantage of it.
Once your PS controllers are connected, start DS3 Tool. DS3 Tool will list all of the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers that it detects. You can add controllers while DS3 Tool is active, but that method seems to be a little less reliable. Recognition is much more consistent when you let Windows recognize the controller or controllers first and then, run DS3 Tool.
DS3 Tool also lets you calibrate controllers across a range of parameters. It also provides a number of testing tools. Test connection will let you know how stable the connection is and should identify any Bluetooth problems. You can also test the rumble or vibration and the responsiveness, and this is useful information for dialing in the controller before you start playing. You can, of course, continue to calibrate while the game is running by minimizing it.
The app has a bit of a barebones and ugly UI. It’s serviceable, but matters are made worse with strange color choices and ads that are plastered all over the place. DS3 Tool also has never been updated to support DualShock 4 controllers. Fortunately, there are many more options for making DS4s work with PCs, but it would be nice to control all of your PS controllers in one place.
Pros
- Use a PlayStation controller with your PC
- Easy to use
- Works with all DualShock 3 models
- Testing modes for responsiveness and rumble
Cons
- Barebones UI
- Doesn’t support DualShock 4 controllers
