DualShock

The DualShock (trademarked as DUAL SHOCK^[1]) is a line of vibration-feedback gamepads by Sony for the PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation 3^[2] video game consoles. The DualShock was introduced in Japan in late 1997, and launched in the North American market in May 1998. First introduced as a secondary peripheral for the original PlayStation, a revised PlayStation version came with the controller and Sony subsequently phased out the digital controller that was originally included with the console, as well as the Sony Dual Analog Controller. As of June 2008, over 28 million controllers have been sold in the DualShock line^[3] (excluding bundled controllers).

Models

DualShock

DualShock

Original grey version of the DualShock controller
Manufacturer	Sony Computer Entertainment
Generation	Fifth generation era
Retail availability	November 20, 1997[4]
Discontinued	March 23, 2006
Input	2× Analog sticks (8-bit precision) 13× Digital buttons (, , , , L1, R1, L2, R2, L3, R3, Start, Select, Analog) Digital D-Pad
Connectivity	PlayStation (2) controller port
Dimensions	Body 157 mm × 95 mm × 55 mm 6.18 in × 3.74 in × 2.16 in Cable 2 m 6.56 ft
Predecessor	Dual Analog
Successor	DualShock 2

Transparent blue version of the DualShock controller.

Dark grey version of the DualShock controller.

The DualShock Analog Controller (SCPH-1200) is a controller capable of providing vibration feedback based on the on-screen action of the game (if the game supports it), as well as analog input through two sticks. The controller is called "DualShock" because the controller employs two vibration motors: a weak buzzing motor that feels like a mobile phone or pager vibration and a strong rumble motor similar to that of the Nintendo 64’s Rumble Pak. The DualShock differs from the Rumble Pak in that the Rumble Pak uses batteries to power the vibration function while all corded varieties of the DualShock use power supplied by the PlayStation. Some third party DualShock-compatible controllers use batteries instead of the PlayStation’s power supply. The rumble feature of the DualShock is similar to the one featured on the first edition of the Japanese Dual Analog Controller, a feature that was removed shortly after that controller was released.

Like its predecessor, the Dual Analog controller, the DualShock controller has two analog sticks. However, unlike its predecessor, the DualShock controller's analog sticks feature textured rubber grips instead of the smooth plastic tips with recessed grooves found on the Dual Analog controller's analog sticks. There are also 2 additional buttons, L3 and R3, which are triggered by pressing the analog sticks down. Other ways to tell the Dual Analog from the DualShock is the longer grips/handles, and slightly different L2/R2 buttons found on the Dual Analog.

The controller was hugely supported; shortly after its launch most new titles, including Crash Bandicoot: Warped, Spyro the Dragon, and Tekken 3 included support for the vibration feature and dual analog sticks. Some games designed for the original vibration ability of the Dual Analog, such as Porsche Challenge and Crash Bandicoot 2, also work. Many games took advantage of the presence of two motors to provide vibration effects in stereo including Gran Turismo and the PlayStation port of Quake II. Released in 1999, the PlayStation hit Ape Escape became the first game to explicitly require DualShock/Dual-Analog-type controllers, with its gameplay requiring the use of both analog sticks.

The DualShock is also compatible with the PlayStation 2, as they use the same connector and protocol. Certain PS2 games that utilize the DualShock 2's analog buttons, such as The Bouncer, are not compatible with the DualShock.

DualShock 2

DualShock 2

DualShock 2 controller
Manufacturer	Sony Computer Entertainment
Generation	Sixth generation era
Retail availability	JP March 4, 2000 NA October 26, 2000 EU November 24, 2000 AUS November 30, 2000
Input	2× Analog sticks (8-bit precision) 8× Pressure sensitive buttons (, , , , L1, R1, L2, R2) Pressure sensitive D-Pad 5× Digital buttons (Start, Select, "Analog", L3, R3)
Connectivity	PlayStation (2) controller port
Dimensions	Body 157 mm × 95 mm × 55 mm 6.18 in × 3.74 in × 2.16 in Cable 2.4 m 7.87 ft
Predecessor	DualShock
Successor	Sixaxis, DualShock 3

When the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system was announced, the DualShock 2 Analog Controller (SCPH-10010) included with it was almost exactly the same externally as the previous DualShock analog controller, except that it was black (other colors came later), had different screw positioning in the back which counted one fewer screws, and the DualShock 2 logo was added. Another way to tell the DualShock and the DualShock 2 controllers apart is that the connector that plugs into the console matches that console's memory card shape; the DualShock’s connector has rounded shoulders and DualShock 2’s is squared off. The analog sticks were also noticeably stiffer for more accurate movements. Internally, the DualShock 2 was lighter and all of the buttons (except for the Analog mode, start, select, L3 and R3 buttons) were readable as analog values (pressure sensitive).^[5]

The DualShock 2 has been made available in various colors such as: black, satin silver, pink, white, transparent grey, blue, green, and red.

The DualShock 2 is also backwards compatible with the original PlayStation.

DualShock 3

DualShock 3

DualShock 3 controller
Manufacturer	Sony Computer Entertainment
Generation	Seventh generation era
Retail availability	JP November 11, 2007[citation needed] NA April 5, 2008[6] AU April 24, 2008[citation needed] EU July 2, 2008[7] UK|ROI July 4, 2008[3] NZ May 9, 2008[citation needed]
Input	Motion sensing (6 axes) 2× Analog sticks (10-bit precision) 2× Analog triggers (L2, R2) 6× Pressure sensitive buttons (, , , , L1, R1) Pressure sensitive D-Pad 5× Digital buttons (Start, Select, "PS", L3, R3)
Connectivity	USB, Bluetooth (PS3 and PSP Go)
Dimensions	160 mm × 97 mm × 55 mm 6.20 in × 3.78 in × 2.20 in
Weight	192 g 6.77 oz
Predecessor	Sixaxis, DualShock 2

See also: Sixaxis

Ceramic white version of the DualShock 3 Sixaxis wireless controller.

Comparison of the tops of DualShock 3 and Sixaxis controllers, showing DUALSHOCK 3 and SIXAXIS labels, USB Mini-B port, controller number LEDs and analog L2/R2 triggers.

Announced at the 2007 Tokyo Game Show, the DualShock 3 Wireless Controller (SCPH-98050/CECHZC2) is a gamepad for the PlayStation 3 that incorporates the design and features of the Sixaxis wireless controller with the haptic feedback capabilities of the DualShock and DualShock 2. The vibration function on the DualShock 3 does not interfere with the motion sensing function of the controller and both functions can be used at once,^[8] leading to speculation that the Immersion v. Sony lawsuit was a reason why the original Sixaxis did not have rumble capabilities. Like the Sixaxis, it is a wireless controller that uses both analog and digital signals simultaneously at all times and has a USB mini-B port for charging, as well as for playing while charging. It can also be used on a PSP Go via Bluetooth, but the controller and the PSP Go must be registered using a PS3.

The DualShock 3 is identifiable by the top labeling which incorporates both "DualShock 3" and "Sixaxis" markings. It is also easily noticeable when lifting the controller, as the DualShock 3, at 192g, weighs 40% more than the Sixaxis’s 137.1g. Additionally, the DualShock 3 is made from opaque plastic rather than the Sixaxis's slightly translucent plastic.

The rear markings indicate the DualShock 3 draws up to 300 mA of current at 3.7 V for a power consumption of 1.11 W, an order of magnitude increase from the 30 mA of current at 3.7 V (0.111 W) listed on the Sixaxis. However, this current is not drawn constantly and is the maximum current when the rumble is active. Its main power source is an internal 3.7 V Li-ion battery, which provides up to 30 hours of continuous gaming on a full charge. Third party replacement batteries are also available. Like the Sixaxis, the DualShock 3 comes with instructions on how to remove and replace the battery. The DualShock 3 can also draw power over a USB cable via a USB mini-B connector on the top of the controller. This allows the controller to be used when the battery is low and is also used for charging the battery. When connected via USB, the controller communicates with the console through the USB cable, rather than Bluetooth.

While the DualShock 3 is compatible with any standard USB mini-B cable and many USB chargers, official charging cables are available from Sony. These include an official cable, the USB 2.0 Cable Pack and a wall charger, the AC adapter charging kit. Any third-party USB charger used must act as a USB host device, rather than simply providing power over the appropriate pins, since both the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 require a host signal to "wake up" and begin charging.

A Sony representative confirmed on April 2, 2008 that the original Sixaxis controller would officially be discontinued with the release of the force-feedback enabled DualShock 3 in mid-April 2008. The Sixaxis is no longer being produced and is no longer in stock in most stores.^[9]

The DualShock 3 has been made available in various colors: black, satin silver, ceramic white, classic white,^[10] metallic blue,^[11] deep red,^[11] pink,^[12] "jungle green",^[13] "candy blue" (light blue)^[14] and "urban camouflage" (three-color digital camouflage).^[15] Not all colors have been made available in all markets or at all times. Additional colors have also been made available alongside limited edition consoles, including gun-metal grey^[16] and "cloud black" (dark grey).^[17] A limited edition baseball themed DualShock 3 controller was released on March 8, 2011 to coincide with the release of MLB 11: The Show.^[18]

Software requirements

PlayStation 3 firmware 1.94 or higher is required to use the DualShock 3 in compatible PlayStation 3 format software. Firmware 2.00 or higher is required to use the DualShock 3 in compatible PlayStation and PlayStation 2 format software. The first software content release supporting the DualShock 3 was the Gran Turismo 5 Prologue free demo made available in the Japanese PlayStation Store on October 20, 2007. A partial list of software that includes rumble support including patches (downloadable add-ons from the PlayStation Store to add rumble to software released before September 2007) was announced by SCEI at the TGS 2007.^[19] Support was added to MotorStorm with an online version 3.0 patch in October, 2007.^[20] In consoles with backwards compatibility, the DualShock 3 controller vibration function can be used in appropriate PS2 and PS1 titles. Future releases of games that support DualShock 3 capability will be labeled with an icon of the controller and "DualShock 3 Compatible".

Reception

The DualShock 3 generated sales of over $10.9 million in April 2008, according to Sony Computer Entertainment America.^[21] It is also bundled with the Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots themed 80 GB PlayStation 3, which was released on June 12, 2008.^[22] Hands-on accounts at the 2007 Tokyo Game Show described the controller as being capable of vibration forces comparable to the DualShock 2. According to GameSpot, DualShock 3’s "rumble was a touch weak but stuck close to PlayStation 2's force feedback";^[23] while various others reported more refined vibration effects than the DualShock 2, particularly with the Metal Gear Solid 4 demonstration.^[24]

Layout

Emmy Award

The DualShock controller was given an Emmy Award for "Peripheral Development and Technological Impact of Video Game Controllers" by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences on January 8, 2007.^[25] Sony initially reported that the Sixaxis had received this award^[26] before issuing a correction.^[27]

References

1. ^ "第４２８０６０５号". 商標出願・登録情報. Industrial Property Digital Library (via WebCite). 4 June 1999. http://www.webcitation.org/5ryj4jQSz. Retrieved 14 August 2010. 
2. ^ Morell, Chris (20 March 2008). "DualShock 3 for PS3". GamePro. http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps3/games/features/170808.shtml. Retrieved 2008-08-21. 
3. ^ ^{a b} "DualShock 3 Wireless Controller available for PlayStation 3 this summer". Next-Gen.biz. 2008-07-01. http://edge-online.com/news/dualshock-3-gets-july-2-european-release. Retrieved 2008-07-01. 
4. ^ "SCPH". maru-chang.org. http://maru-chang.com/hard/scph/index.php/english. 
5. ^ "Dual Shock 2 Review". IGN. 2001-09-27. http://gear.ign.com/articles/306/306387p1.html. Retrieved 2008-12-07. "The biggest difference between the Dual Shock 2 and the original ... is the fact that ... all of the buttons and even the digital pad offer analog support. This means that the d-pad, the four face buttons and the four shift buttons are all pressure sensitive and have 255 degrees of sensitivity. ... It's also worth noting that the Dual Shock 2 is a bit lighter than the original Dual Shock." 
6. ^ YouTube - PS3 VIDEO NEW (DEFENSE)
7. ^ "DUALSHOCK3 Wireless Controller available for PLAYSTATION3 this summer". Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2008-06-30. http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4585&NewsAreaID=2. Retrieved 2008-06-30. 
8. ^ Gamertell Review: Sony Dualshock 3 wireless controller
9. ^ MTV Multiplayer » Sony Non-Shocker: Sixaxis Discontinued
10. ^ Hollister, Sean (September 5, 2010). "'Classic White' DualShock 3 appears at e-tail, dreaming of an alabaster console". Engadget. http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/05/classic-white-dualshock-3-appears-at-e-tail-dreaming-of-an-al/. Retrieved September 10, 2010. 
11. ^ ^{a b} Miller, Paul (July 28, 2009). "Sony's red and blue DualShock 3 controllers land in October, love this country". Engadget. http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/sonys-new-red-and-blue-dualshock-3-controllers-bleed-american/. Retrieved September 10, 2010. 
12. ^ McElroy, Griffin (September 10, 2010). "Pink DualShock 3 controller coming September 21". Joystiq. http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/pink-dualshock-3-controller-coming-september-21/. Retrieved September 10, 2010. 
13. ^ "Amazon.com: DualShock 3 Controller - Jungle Green: Video Games". amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FM3WJA. Retrieved December 26, 2010. 
14. ^ "Japan: New PS3 controller colour, peripherals announced". CVG. March 1, 2011. http://www.computerandvideogames.com/291395/news/japan-new-ps3-controller-colour-peripherals-announced/. Retrieved March 1, 2011. 
15. ^ "DUALSHOCK®3 – Urban Camouflage - PlayStation®3 Accessories". Sony. http://us.playstation.com/ps3/accessories/ds3-urban-camouflage.html. Retrieved September 13, 2011. 
16. ^ "Gunmetal Grey PS3 Coming to North America". Shacknews. April 10, 2008. http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/52164. Retrieved September 10, 2010. 
17. ^ North, Dale (January 19, 2009). "Final Fantasy VII Advent Children PS3 bundle is real". Destructoid. http://www.destructoid.com/final-fantasy-vii-advent-children-ps3-bundle-is-real-118513.phtml. Retrieved September 10, 2010. 
18. ^ "Amazon.com: PS3 DualShock 3 Wireless Controller - MLB 11 The Show Edition: Video Games". amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GN8VGM. Retrieved December 26, 2010. 
19. ^ "PlayStation 3 TGS2007 official site DualShock3 announcement" (in Japanese). 2007. http://www.jp.playstation.com/tgs2007/ps3/hardware/index.html. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
20. ^ McWhertor, Michael (2007-10-24). "Motorstorm 3.0 patch adds DualShock 3 fun". http://kotaku.com/gaming/patch-watch/motorstorm-30-patch-coming-adds-dualshock-3-fun-314677.php. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
21. ^ Video Game News, Video Game Coverage, Video Game Updates, PC Game News, PC Game Coverage - GameDaily
22. ^ PlayStation.Blog » Destination PlayStation News: MGS PS3 Bundle, Kratos PSP and DualShock3 Release Date
23. ^ "TGS '07: Spot On - The Dual Shock 3". GameSpot. CNET. 2007-09-17. http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179170.html. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
24. ^ Pigna, Kris (2007-09-26). "Kojima Productions Says DualShock 3 Better DS2". 1UP.com. Ziff Davis. http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3163213. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
25. ^ "National Television Academy Announces Emmy Winning Achievements: Honors Bestowed at 58th Annual Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards". 2007-09-20. http://www.emmyonline.org/mediacenter/tech_2k6_winners.html. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
26. ^ "Sony Computer Entertainment America Wins Emmy Award for PLAYSTATION3 SIXAXIS Wireless Controller". Sony Computer Entertainment America. 2007-01-08. Archived from the original on 2007-01-10. http://web.archive.org/web/20070110162026/http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/374. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 
27. ^ Thorsen, Tor (2007-01-10). "Sony retracts Sixaxis Emmy claims". GameSpot. CNET. http://www.gamespot.com/news/6164037.html. Retrieved 2008-01-11. 

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to: DualShock or DualShock 2 or DualShock 3

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