The PlayStation 4 controller, or DualShock 4, is a powerful tool that lets you interact with your favorite games in a variety of ways. Whether you’re playing online with friends or exploring a new single-player adventure, the DualShock 4 gives you the control you need to dominate your opponents and immerse yourself in the action. However, there are times when you may need to disconnect your PS4 controller from your PS4 console.
One reason you might need to disconnect your PS4 controller is if it’s not working properly. If your controller is experiencing drift, button lag, or other issues, disconnecting it and reconnecting it can often resolve the problem. Additionally, you may need to disconnect your controller if you’re experiencing interference from other wireless devices. If you’re playing in a crowded area, for example, there’s a chance that other controllers or Bluetooth devices could interfere with your connection. Disconnecting and reconnecting your controller can help to eliminate any interference and improve your gaming experience.
To disconnect your PS4 controller from your PS4 console, simply press and hold the PlayStation button on the controller for a few seconds. The light bar on the controller will begin to flash, indicating that it is now disconnected. You can then reconnect the controller by pressing the PlayStation button again. If you’re having trouble disconnecting your controller, try resetting it by pressing and holding the reset button on the back of the controller for a few seconds.
Unpairing the Controller via Bluetooth
To unpair your PS4 controller from your PS4 via Bluetooth, follow these steps:
- Turn off your PS4.
- Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller, next to the L2 button.
- Use a small tool, such as a paperclip or a SIM card removal tool, to press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds.
- Release the reset button and wait for the controller to turn off.
- Turn on your PS4.
- Connect your controller to your PS4 using a USB cable.
- Once the controller is connected, press the PlayStation button on the controller to turn it on.
- The controller will now be paired with your PS4 via Bluetooth.
Additional Notes:
* If you are having trouble unpairing your controller, you can try resetting your PS4. To do this, turn off your PS4, unplug it from the power outlet, and wait for 30 seconds. Then, plug your PS4 back in and turn it on.
* If you are still having trouble, you can contact PlayStation Support for assistance.
Using the Reset Button on the Controller
If your PS4 controller is unresponsive or behaving erratically, you can try resetting it using the small reset button located on the back of the controller. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Locate the Reset Button
Turn your PS4 controller upside down and look for a small, recessed button near the L2 shoulder button. This is the reset button.
Use a Pin or Paperclip
Take a small pin or paperclip and gently insert it into the reset hole. Press and hold the button for about 5 seconds.
Release and Reconnect
Release the reset button and connect your controller to your PS4 using a USB cable. The controller should now be reset and functioning properly. If the problem persists, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps or contact PlayStation support.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the reset button on the back of the controller. |
| 2 | Insert a pin or paperclip into the reset hole and hold it for 5 seconds. |
| 3 | Release the reset button and connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable. |
Power Cycling the PS4 and Controller
Power cycling involves restarting both the PS4 console and the controller. This can help resolve connection issues and refresh the system software. Follow these steps:
- Power Down the PS4:
- Press and hold the power button on the front of the PS4 console for about 7 seconds, until the console beeps twice and powers down.
- Power Off the Controller:
- Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller, near the L2 button.
- Use a small, pointed object (such as a paperclip or toothpick) to press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds, until the light bar on the controller flashes and turns off.
- Power Up the PS4:
- Wait a few seconds after powering down the PS4.
- Press the power button again to turn the PS4 back on.
- Connect the Controller Wirelessly:
- Turn on the controller by pressing the PS button.
- The controller will automatically attempt to connect to the PS4 wirelessly.
- If the connection is successful, the light bar on the controller will turn solid blue.
- Configure Controller Settings (Optional):
- Once the controller is connected, you can adjust its settings by going to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Controllers” in the PS4 menu.
- Here, you can change options such as controller sensitivity, vibration intensity, and button assignments.
Verifying the Pairing Status
Before attempting to disconnect your PS4 controller, it’s essential to verify its pairing status. This step helps determine if the controller is still connected to the console and how to proceed with the disconnection process.
To verify the pairing status, follow these steps:
- Check the Light Bar: The light bar on the back of the PS4 controller will typically glow a solid color when paired with the console. If the light bar is off, the controller is not paired.
- Try to Control the PS4: Attempt to use the PS4 controller to navigate the PS4 menu or play a game. If the controller has no effect, it is likely not paired.
- Examine the USB Cable Connection: If you’re using a USB cable to connect the controller, check the physical connection at both ends. Ensure the cable is securely plugged in and not loose.
- Power Cycle the PS4: Turn off the PS4 console completely, unplug it from the power source, and wait a few minutes. Plug the console back in and turn it on to reset any potential pairing issues.
- Try a Different USB Port: If using a USB cable, try connecting the controller to a different USB port on the PS4 console. Some ports may malfunction or become unresponsive.
- Use a Wired Connection: If the controller is not pairing wirelessly, try connecting it to the PS4 console using a USB cable. This establishes a wired connection and forces the controller to pair.
- Reset the PS4 Controller: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you may need to reset the PS4 controller. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller, insert a small tool like a paperclip into the hole, and hold it down for about 5 seconds. This will restore the controller to its default factory settings and force it to pair again.
By following these steps, you can effectively verify the pairing status of your PS4 controller and determine the appropriate course of action for disconnecting it from the console.
Resetting the PS4 System
If you are experiencing persistent problems with your PS4 controller, resetting the system may be a necessary step. Follow these instructions to perform a system reset:
- Power off the PS4 console: Press and hold the power button on the console for about 7 seconds until it beeps twice and powers off.
- Enter Safe Mode: Press and hold the power button again for about 7 seconds until it beeps twice. Release the button after the second beep.
- Connect the controller with a USB cable: Use a USB cable to connect your PS4 controller directly to the console.
- Select “Reset PS4 (Reinstall System Software)”: Use the D-pad on the controller to navigate the Safe Mode menu and select “Reset PS4 (Reinstall System Software).” This option will reinstall the PS4 system software while preserving your account data.
- Initialize PS4: Select “Initialize PS4” from the next screen. This option will completely wipe the PS4’s hard drive, including all user data and games. Use this option only if other solutions fail.
- Follow the on-screen instructions: The system will guide you through the rest of the reset process. Once complete, your PS4 will be reset to its factory settings.
- Set up the controller: After the reset is complete, turn on the PS4 and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your controller. Press and hold the PS button on the controller until it lights up and connects.
- Update the system software: If prompted, connect your PS4 to the internet and update the system software to the latest version.
- Test the controller: Once the system software is updated, test the controller to ensure it is functioning properly. If the controller still has issues, it may need to be repaired.
Checking the Physical Connection
Ensure that the controller is properly connected to the PS4 via a USB cable or Bluetooth.
Restarting the PS4
Restart your PS4 to resolve any temporary glitches that may be causing the disconnection.
Resetting the Controller
Press and hold the small reset button on the back of the controller using a paperclip or other small object for 5 seconds to reset it.
Updating the Controller
Connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable and check for firmware updates under [Settings] > [Devices] > [Controllers] to ensure it has the latest software.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connection
If using a Bluetooth connection, try removing and re-pairing the controller with the PS4 under [Settings] > [Devices] > [Bluetooth Devices].
Checking USB Cable
If using a USB cable, inspect it for any damage or loose connections and try using a different cable if possible.
Contacting PlayStation Support
Contacting PlayStation Support
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact PlayStation Support for further assistance:
Online Support
Visit the PlayStation Support website at www.playstation.com/support/ for online troubleshooting resources and chat support.
Phone Support
Call the PlayStation Support hotline at 1-800-345-7669 (US and Canada) or check the support website for international phone numbers.
Email Support
Send an email to support@playstation.com with a detailed description of the issue and your contact information.
Table of International Phone Numbers
| Country | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| United States | 1-800-345-7669 |
| Canada | 1-800-345-7669 |
| United Kingdom | 0844-870-5238 |
| France | 0825-863-192 |
| Germany | 01806-677149 |
How to Disconnect PS4 Controller from PS4
If you need to disconnect your PS4 controller from your PS4 console, there are a few simple steps you can follow. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the PlayStation button on your controller to open the Quick Menu.
- Select the “Settings” icon.
- Scroll down and select “Devices.”
- Select “Bluetooth Devices.”
- Select your controller from the list of paired devices.
- Press the “X” button to disconnect the controller.
Once you have disconnected your controller, you can reconnect it by pressing the PlayStation button on the controller. The controller will automatically pair with the console.
People Also Ask
How do I disconnect a PS4 controller without the controller?
There are two ways to disconnect a PS4 controller without the controller. One way is to use the console’s settings menu. The other way is to use the console’s reset button.
To use the console’s settings menu, go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Bluetooth Devices”. Then, select your controller from the list of paired devices and press the “X” button to disconnect it.
To use the console’s reset button, locate the small, recessed button on the back of the console. Use a paperclip or a similar object to press and hold the button for about 5 seconds. The console will reset and all paired controllers will be disconnected.
How do I reconnect a PS4 controller?
To reconnect a PS4 controller, simply press the PlayStation button on the controller. The controller will automatically pair with the console.
