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. All Sixaxis controllers, with the exception of those bundled with a console were sold without a USB to USB mini cable. "Sixaxis" also 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 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. On March 6, a Satin Silver DualShock 3 was released in Japan, again alongside a new console color. The black DualShock 3 was released in the United States on April 2 and in Europe on July 2. 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.
Both controllers can also be used on the PSP Go via Bluetooth (requires a PlayStation 3 system for initial connection).
Charging stand
An official charging stand for PlayStation 3 controllers was released in Japan on April 21, 2011. 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 keypad
The wireless keypad peripheral (CECHZK1x, where x is a region code) was launched in Europe on November 28, 2008, 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 (labeled 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.