PS3 recovery mode: without controller, not working

PS3 recovery mode: without controller, not working

If you are having difficulty starting your PlayStation 3, you may need to start it in recovery mode. This FAQ will show you how to get started and access recovery mode.

What does the recovery mode do?

Recovery mode provides options to restore your PS3 in case of failure or errors:

  • The XMB disappears,
  • Error due to a mishandling,
  • You turned off your Playstation 3 during an update.

As result your console will no longer respond. The recovery mode allows you to fix many issues (both for the normal and slim versions of the PS3).

How to access PlayStation 3 recovery mode?

To access this mode, follow the below procedure:

  • Turn off your Playstation 3 (the red LED is still turned on).
  • Hold the power button down, to completely turn off your console.
  • Keep holding the power button down until you hear a beep followed by 2 consecutive beeps.
  • You will be prompted to plug in your controller via USB.
  • Press the PS button and the Recovery menu will pop up.

What are the recovery menu options?

  • Restart the system: it reboots the console but you will need to reconfigure the audio and video settings.
  • Restore the Default settings: During this operation, the default system software will be restored and information about the currently logged user will be deleted.
  • Restore the system files: Use this option to fix errors occurring due to corrupted data.
  • Rebuild the database: sort and organize the data found on your disk (all games folder will be removed).
  • Restore PS3 system: To delete the entire contents of hard disk and restore the default system software.
  • System Update: Install the latest PS3 software update.

Can you access recovery mode without a controller?

No, you cannot enter PS3 recovery mode without a PS3 controller. 

Any more PlayStation questions? Check out our forum!
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