DsHidMini is a versatile and lightweight driver designed to enable the use of Sony DualShock 3 controllers on Windows PCs, including both wired and wireless connections via Bluetooth. By offering seamless compatibility with Windows 10 and 11, it provides an ideal solution for gamers and emulator enthusiasts looking to use their PS3 controllers for a more immersive experience.
Whether you’re playing retro games, using emulators like PCSX2 or Dolphin, or just enjoying your favorite PC games, DsHidMini ensures reliable controller support.
Prerequisites for Installing DsHidMini
Before you begin installing DsHidMini on your PC, there are a few key prerequisites you need to meet to ensure a smooth and successful setup. These include system requirements, necessary hardware, and additional drivers.
System Requirements
Supported Operating Systems:
DsHidMini is compatible with Windows 10 and 11, both 64-bit and 32-bit versions. It’s important to make sure you’re using a supported version of Windows before proceeding with the installation. Older versions of Windows, such as Windows 7 or 8, are not supported by this driver.
Genuine Sony DualShock 3 Controller:
To use DsHidMini, you must have a genuine Sony DualShock 3 controller. The driver is specifically designed to work with official PS3 controllers, and third-party or counterfeit controllers may not function correctly. These controllers need to be connected either via USB or Bluetooth for the driver to recognize and operate them effectively.
Additional Drivers
BthPS3 Driver for Bluetooth Functionality:
If you plan to connect your DualShock 3 controller wirelessly via Bluetooth, you will need to install the BthPS3 driver. This driver allows Windows to properly interface with the controller over Bluetooth and ensures stable connectivity. Without it, the controller may not connect wirelessly or may experience performance issues.
Downloading DsHidMini
To begin the installation of DsHidMini, the first step is to download the driver from the official GitHub repository. Here’s a clear breakdown of how to access the repository, locate the latest version release, and download the appropriate file for your system.
Accessing the Official GitHub Repository
Open your web browser and navigate to the official DsHidMini GitHub repository. You can do this by searching for “DsHidMini GitHub” in your search engine or directly visiting
Once on the repository page, you’ll find the source code and release notes for the driver.
Locating the Latest Version Release
- In the GitHub repository, scroll down to the Releases section, which is typically found on the right side of the page under the “Releases” tab.
- Look for the most recent release, which will be clearly labeled with the version number (e.g., “v2.0.0”).
- Click on the version title to access the detailed release page, where you’ll find download links for the driver files.
Downloading the Correct File for Your System
Once on the release page, look for the download files available for your system. There will typically be separate download links for 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- For 64-bit Windows: Download the DsHidMini_x64.zip file.
- For 32-bit Windows: Download the DsHidMini_x86.zip file.
- Click on the appropriate file link to start the download.
Preparing for Installation
Before you can install DsHidMini on your PC, it’s essential to prepare the installation files. This includes unblocking the downloaded .zip file (if necessary) and extracting its contents to a folder on your computer. These steps ensure that all files are accessible and ready for installation.
Unblocking the Zip File
- When downloading files from the internet, Windows may block certain files to protect your system. If the DsHidMini .zip file is blocked, it will prevent proper extraction and installation. To unblock the file:
- Right-click on the downloaded .zip file.Select Properties from the context menu.In the General tab, look for an option at the bottom that says Unblock.
- Check the Unblock box, then click Apply and OK.
- This ensures the file is not flagged as potentially harmful and can be extracted without issues.
Extracting Files
Once the file is unblocked, it’s time to extract its contents. To do this:
- Right-click on the .zip file and choose Extract All.
- A window will pop up asking where to extract the files. Select a location on your PC (preferably a folder you can easily access, such as Desktop or Documents).
- Click Extract, and the files will be unpacked into the folder.
Configuring Bluetooth (Optional)
If you prefer using your Sony DualShock 3 controller wirelessly on your PC, you will need to configure Bluetooth connectivity. This requires installing the BthPS3 driver, which allows your controller to connect to your computer via Bluetooth.
Installing the BthPS3 Driver for Bluetooth Functionality
Download the BthPS3 Driver:
Visit the official GitHub repository or the developer’s website to download the latest version of the BthPS3 driver.
Install the Driver:
After downloading the driver, run the installation file and follow the on-screen prompts. This step replaces the default Bluetooth stack with the necessary functionality for the DualShock 3 controller. Ensure that you’re installing the correct version based on your system’s architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Restart Your PC:
Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to ensure the driver is properly integrated into the system.
Pairing the DualShock 3 Controller via Bluetooth
Activate Pairing Mode on the Controller:
With the controller turned off, press and hold the PS button and the Share button simultaneously for a few seconds until the LED light starts flashing rapidly. This indicates that the controller is now in Bluetooth pairing mode.
Enable Bluetooth on Your PC:
Open the Bluetooth settings on your Windows PC by going to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled.
Connect the Controller:
In the Bluetooth settings window, click on Add Bluetooth or another device and select Bluetooth. Your PC will search for available devices. Select Wireless Controller (this is the DualShock 3 controller), and the connection will be established automatically.
Confirm the Connection:
Once paired, the LED light on the controller will stop blinking and remain on, indicating a successful connection.
How to Check Bluetooth Connection Success
Check the Controller’s LED Indicator:
After pairing, the LED on your DualShock 3 controller should emit a solid light, confirming that the Bluetooth connection has been established successfully.
Test in Device Manager:
To ensure the controller is recognized by Windows, open Device Manager and look under the Human Interface Devices section. You should see your controller listed as a HID-compliant game controller.
Test the Controller in Games or Emulators:
Launch a game or an emulator (such as PCSX2 or RetroArch) to verify that the controller is functioning correctly. If the controller is working in these applications, the Bluetooth connection is successful.
Conclusion
DsHidMini offers a seamless and efficient solution for connecting your Sony DualShock 3 controller to your Windows PC, whether via USB or Bluetooth. The installation process involves downloading the driver from the official GitHub repository, extracting the necessary files, and installing both the primary driver and the filter driver using the .inf files. For Bluetooth functionality, you’ll need to install the BthPS3 driver to ensure wireless connectivity.