PS4 controllers, also known as DualShock, are used to make gaming on the console easier. Released in 2013, PS4 comes with a DualShock controller, a console, a USB cable, a power cable, and an HDMI cable.
You can charge Dualshock without PS4 but only with specific USB chargers. Typically, a DualShock controller needs to be compatible with a USB cable to charge effectively. When charging it using the PS4 console, you can use any type of USB cable because the two are already integrated. However, without PS4, you need a specific USB cable to plug into an alternative power source for effective charging.
Some of the best alternative power sources are a PC or Mac. These devices have intelligent chargers that will communicate to the DualShock controller other than just supplying power. To shed light on how you can charge your Dualshock without PS4, this section discusses everything you need to know and the precautions you should take.
You Have Several Options to Use
There are several ways you can charge your Dualshock controller. Keep in mind that controllers need a constant power supply to charge to full capacity. Before charging your controller, it is essential to ensure that all the existing battery charge has run out. This is important because constantly charging your controller even when it has sufficient charge will affect its battery life significantly. Charging it for too long can also damage its functionality, make it hard to use.
Dualshock 4 has a USB port that is compatible with any 2.0/3.0 USB cables. This means that you can connect your DualShock controller to other devices like computers and laptops for charging purposes. While the DualShock controller can connect to many devices, it is not compatible with every charger. In most cases, connecting your Dualshock controller to a Mac or PC doesn’t cause any negative repercussions.
Fast Chargers Can Be Damaging
This is the case only if you don’t use fast chargers. Using fast chargers to charge your Dualshock controller is risky because it damages it. When using a fast charger to charge your tablet, smartphone, or laptop, the fast charger uses high voltage to accomplish the goal of charging your device faster. Using the same USB cable on your Dualshock controller could burn it out and cause significant damage.
On average, a DualShock controller allows for a 5V 800ma power supply. This is the power supply level required to charge a Dualshock controller — anything higher than that could damage it. Keep in mind that the ma rating is the amount of energy transferred when a device is charging. Therefore, when choosing a USB cable to charge your Dualshock controller, it is essential to check the level of power it supplies. This will help prevent damage.
Avoid Poor Voltage
Power voltage is another thing you need to worry about when charging your Dualshock controller without PS4. Always ensure that the power voltage does not exceed 5V. In these cases, voltage indicates the level of power originating from the source. If your computer or laptop is supplying power above 5V, it could burn your Dualshock controller. This is why you need to confirm the voltage level of your power source before charging the controller. You should also beware of power sources that supply energy way below 5V. This could result in slow charging that leaves your battery half-full. Such cases could result in battery failure.
In summary, you can charge your Dualshock controller without PS4 as long as the USB cable you use does not exceed 5V. Using the correct USB cable will see your Dualshock controller charge effectively and in a short time. The good news is that you can use most android phone chargers to charge your controller. All you have to do is ensure they don’t supply excessive power that can burn your Dualshock controller!
