DualSense Controller V2 Repair

Released alongside the PlayStation 5, the DualSense controller was designed as the successor to the DualShock 4.

Several months after the initial release, the DualSense controller was quietly updated with internal changes that improved durability. Unfortunately this did not solve the common issues with joystick drift.

This controller can be identified by the unique design compared to last generation, and the use of USB-C instead of MicroUSB. Other identifying marks include the FCC ID (AK8CFIZCT1A) and IC ID (409B-CFIZCT1).

Note: this is the updated variant of the DualSense controller. Click here for the initial variant.

After reports of joystick “drift” in PS5 DualSense controllers, an iFixit investigation revealed the cause.

This is currently in testing. IMPORTANT: DS4Windows 2.1.17 or newer is REQUIRED. At this time, the DualSense is not compatible with InputMapper like the older DualShock 4 controller.

• USB-C

It is possible to connect the controller to a PC over a wire with a USB-C cable. Make sure the cable is reasonably long and USB-IF certified if you go this route. Your cable range will be limited by your cable and the USB-C specification.

• Bluetooth

If you need to go beyond the USB-C specifications, Bluetooth is supported on these controllers.

CAUTION: Bluetooth performance is dependent on what chipset your receiver uses, or chipset used by your computer (often integrated into the wireless card, especially on somewhat recent computers). While most Bluetooth chipsets are reasonably compatible with this controller outside of the nonstandard items like the trackpad, some chipsets can be troublesome, primarily Broadcom chipsets. As long as your laptop has a quality wireless card (or one can be installed, like an Intel/QCA ath10k based card), this can usually be remedied without use of an external adapter.
If you cannot change your card easily (or do not want to open your computer), a USB “CSR 4.X” adapter (that is verified to be compliant with the CSR specification) can also be used.