Various accessories for the PlayStation 3 video game console have been produced by Sony and third-party companies. These include controllers, audio and video input devices like microphones, video cameras, and cables for better sound and picture quality.
The controllers include the DualShock 3, a keypad that connects to the aforementioned controller, a controller similar to those for the Xbox Kinect that allows for motion controls, and miscellaneous others used for a specific use. Headsets (mostly used for communications, not game audio) are the major A/V devices, followed by cameras and other input devices. Finally, a composite video cable set, USB cable sets, and memory adaptors complete the accessories.
Game controllers Sixaxis
The Sixaxis Wireless Controller (SCPH-98040/CECHZC1) (trademarked "SIXAXIS") was the official wireless controller for the PlayStation 3 until it was succeeded by the DualShock 3. In Japan, individual Sixaxis controllers were available for purchase simultaneously with the console's launch. "Sixaxis" refers to the motion sensing technology used in both the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers.
Its design is an evolution of the DualShock 2 controller, retaining its pressure-sensitive buttons, layout and basic shape. Unlike the DualShock 2, however, it is a Bluetooth wireless controller (it will also function as a wired controller via USB) and features motion sensing technology. It also does not feature vibration motors (these were re-added in the DualShock 3). The L2 and R2 buttons were replaced with analog triggers and the precision of the analog sticks was increased from 8-bit to 10-bit. In place of the "Analog" button is a button labeled with the PlayStation logo, which allows access to the system menu. The underside of the case is also slightly enlarged to accommodate the internal battery. The Sixaxis is constructed of slightly translucent plastic, rather than the opaque plastic used on the DualShock 2 (and the later DualShock 3).
DualShock 3
Replacing the Sixaxis as the standard PlayStation 3 controller, the DualShock 3 (SCPH-98050/CECHZC2, trademarked "DUALSHOCK 3") features the same functions and design (including "Sixaxis" motion sensing), but with vibration feedback capability.
Cosmetically, the DualShock 3 is nearly identical to the Sixaxis, with the only differences being that "DUALSHOCK 3" is printed on the top (with the original "SIXAXIS" label moved down) and that the body is made of opaque plastic rather than the slightly translucent plastic used on the Sixaxis. The vibration function does not interfere with the motion sensing function, and both functions can be used at once. Like the Sixaxis, it is a wireless controller with a mini-USB port on the rear that is used for charging, as well as for playing while charging.
Released alongside new PlayStation 3 models in Japan on January 11, 2008, the DualShock 3 was initially available in Black and Ceramic White colors, matching the color options for the new console models.NEW PLAYSTATION 3 (CECHH00 SERIES) COMES IN TWO COLOR VARIATIONS AT A NEW PRICE | PRESS RELEASES Sony Computer Entertainment Inc . Scei.co.jp. Retrieved on 2013-08-23. On March 6, a Satin Silver DualShock 3 was released in Japan, again alongside a new console color.PLAYSTATION 3 AND DUALSHOCK 3 WIRELESS CONTROLLER COME IN A NEW SATIN SILVER COLOR ON MARCH 6th, 2008 | PRESS RELEASES Sony Computer Entertainment Inc . Scei.co.jp. Retrieved on 2013-08-23. The black DualShock 3 was released in the United States on April 2Feel the Shock Next Week! – PlayStation.Blog. Blog.us.playstation.com (2008-04-02). Retrieved on 2013-08-23. and in Europe on July 2.Sony Computer Entertainment Europe – Virtual Press Office. Web.archive.org. Retrieved on 2013-08-23. On October 30, 2008, the DualShock 3 became the standard controller packaged with PlayStation 3 consoles, starting with the (non-PS2-backwards compatible) 80 GB models.NEW 80 GB PLAYSTATION 3 BECOMES AVAILABLE IN JAPAN ON OCTOBER 30TH | PRESS RELEASES Sony Computer Entertainment Inc . Scei.co.jp. Retrieved on 2013-08-23.
Both controllers can also be used on the PSP Go via Bluetooth (requires a PSP system for initial connection).
Charging stand An official charging stand for PlayStation 3 controllers was released in Japan on April 21, 2011 (CECH-ZDC1J). It is capable of charging two controllers simultaneously and is powered by a wall plug.
Third-party charging stands are available in regions outside of Japan.
Wireless keyboard The official wireless keyboard peripheral (CECH-ZKB1x, where x is a region code) was released in June 2011. There are localizations in JP, GB, FR, DE, ES, IT, KR, TW, HK, RU. It runs on 2 replaceable AA batteries. It includes a nub mouse. It requires PS3 system software version 3.60 or higher
Wireless keypad
The wireless keypad peripheral (CECH-ZK1xx, where xx is a region code) was launched in Europe on November 28, 2008,Purchese, Robert. (2008-11-18) PS3 wireless keypad gets date, price News • News • PlayStation 3 •. Eurogamer.net. Retrieved on 2013-08-23. early December 2008 in North America, and came to Japan in late 2008. As well as acting as keyboard, the wireless keypad features a touchpad button (labelled as a pointing hand, similar to the pointer used in the web browser), which allows the surface of the keypad to be used as a touchpad, allowing users to move the pointer by sliding their fingers around the keypad surface. When in touchpad mode, the left and right arrow buttons act as left and right mouse buttons, respectively.
Although designed to be directly attached to the controller, the keypad features an internal battery and an independent Bluetooth connection, and does not connect to the controller electronically in any way, meaning it can function separately from the controller. The keypad must be first connected to the PlayStation 3 via a USB mini-B to USB-A cable or put into Bluetooth discovery mode (by holding down the "blue" modifier key when switching the device on) so it can be paired and subsequently used. Discovery mode can also be used to pair the keypad with other Bluetooth compatible devices such as computers and mobile phones, where it will function as both a keyboard and a touchpad (where supported by the host device). The keypad also features two shortcut buttons, letting users jump to the "Friends" screen and "Message Box" on the XMB during game play.
PlayStation Move
PlayStation Move (CECH-ZCM1x, where x is a region code) is a motion-sensing game controller platform for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) video game console by Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE). It was previously named PlayStation Motion Controller. Based on a handheld motion controller wand, PlayStation Move uses the PlayStation Eye webcam to track the wand's position, and inertial sensors in the wand to detect its motion (similar to the Wii Remote). First revealed on June 2, 2009, PlayStation Move was launched in September 2010 in most countries and October 2010 in Japan. Hardware available at launch included the main PlayStation Move motion controller, and an optional PlayStation Move navigation controller (CECH-ZCS1x, where x is a region code).
Buzz! Buzzer
The Buzz! Buzzer is a special controller designed specifically for the Buzz! quiz game series. The controller features a large red buzzer button and four smaller coloured buttons for answer selection. Both wired and wireless versions are available and come bundled with Buzz! games. A four-buzzer set acts as a single USB device and connects a USB port on the PlayStation 3. Wireless versions connect via a USB dongle, with each dongle able to support up to 4 wireless buzzers at a time. A second dongle is required for additional buzzers (for 8 player games). Both the wired and wireless versions of the buzzers are compatible with both PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3.
Logitech Driving Force GT
Released on December 13, 2007, the Logitech Driving Force GT is a PlayStation 3 racing wheel peripheral intended for use with racing games. It is manufactured and distributed by Logitech International S.A of Romanel-sur-Morges, Switzerland. It features include 900° steering (2.5 turns lock-to-lock), with force feedback, via a full-sized (diameter 45 cm), MOMO-styled steering wheel and full-sized throttle and brake pedals. It also features PlayStation 3 standard gamepad buttons (with gray colored , , and symbols), a PS/Home button (labeled PS), L3/R3 buttons, individually sprung to simulate real pedal efforts.
Other wheels include the Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo S Racing Wheel, which features force feedback, 6 gear stick shifter and 3 pedals (Gas/Brake/Clutch).
Logitech Cordless Precision Controller
The Logitech Cordless Precision Controller has similar function with the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 wireless controllers except it has 2.4 GHz USB wireless technology that gives the user 30 feet (10 m) of room to play. The controller uses two AA batteries which provide up to 50 hours of continuous gaming. After five minutes of inactivity, the gamepad goes into sleep mode. The controller may also be used on a PC, as the dongle acts as a standard USB HID.
Blu-ray Disc remotes
The PS3 is compatible with any Bluetooth Blu-ray Disc/DVD remote control. With a USB or Bluetooth adapter it is also compatible with many Blu-ray Disc/DVD and universal remote controls. Unlike the PS2, the PS3 does not have an infrared receiver; all compatible remote controls use Bluetooth instead.
The Blu-ray Disc Remote Control (CECH-ZR1x, where x is a region code) is a Bluetooth remote control which features standard Blu-ray Disc and DVD remote functions such as chapter display/select and one-touch menu control. In addition it has all standard PlayStation buttons: d-pad, , , , , L1, L2, L3, R1, R2, R3, Start, Select and a PS/Home button for turning on and off your PS3 and going to the XMB.
The Media/Blu-ray Disc Remote Control (CECH-ZRC1x, where x is a region code) controls the PlayStation 3, TV (including switching between 2D and 3D modes on 3D TVs), and audio system, has enhanced controls for Blu-ray Disc movies, streaming movies and music, and is compatible with streaming services available on the PS3 such as Netflix. It was released on October 24, 2011.Media / Blu-ray Disc Remote Control | PS3 Accessories. Us.playstation.com. Retrieved on 2013-08-23.
Rhythm game peripherals
Various rhythm game peripherals are available for the PlayStation 3, including guitar controllers, drum kit controllers, microphones, DJ turntables, and a keyboard controller. Most of these peripherals were produced for one of three franchises: Guitar Hero, Rock Band and SingStar.
uDraw GameTablet The uDraw GameTablet is a graphics tablet designed to be used with various games. It was produced by THQ and released for the PlayStation 3 on November 15, 2011. The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of the uDraw were a commercial failure and were discontinued in February 2012. THQ filed for bankruptcy the following year.
Tony Hawk Shred Board A wireless skating board for Tony Hawk: Shred (and Ride) games. Replaces the previous Tony Hawk Ride Board, also by Activision. (The Ride board is not forward compatible with Shred.)
USB controllers