Author Topic: PS3 Remappable controller and code updated (Read 57544 times)

Hazer · « **on:** May 18, 2011, 08:04:23 PM »

Update Jan 20th, 2013: New PC utility with broader sensitivity: http://www.mediafire.com/?pu5o7ha4o8b1fwp

Hello everyone, I am glad to introduce the long awaited PS3 Remappable controller. This project started with the express intention of granting Chuck Bittner his desire to remap the buttons on a standard controller. With this controller, Chuck will be able to remap the buttons on any current and past game that he normally would have to pass on due to the ergonomics of the default button layout. But his petition is much more important than that, as it will allow stock controllers the same ability for all games in the future. So please visit his petition and support the cause.

http://www.petitiononline.com/cu5t0m/petition.html

OK. Now onto the main event! I have spent better than 6 months of late nights (I dont have free time before 10PM) getting this modification to work just right. I have made the decision not only to make the first controller for Chuck, but I am also releasing the files neded for other modders to make thier own, or use it for other abled gamers. In the past, my work has been raped/bunked/stolen as others work and this made me ponder if I should make this mod public or not. My compromise is this: I will release the hex files and the utility and the schematics, but the source code will remain my own. The mod will function as intended without giving anyone the hard work I put in to make a rapidfire and profit from me again. If they want to market the remap as is, thats fine by me. This modification is difficult enough, it probably should be left in the hands of professional modders to perform. Which brings up the next point:

THE DIFFICULTY OF THIS MOD IS HIGHER THAN NORMAL. IT REQUIRES CUTTING TRACES AND SOLDERING TO VIAS. AS SUCH, PERFORMING THIS MOD IS AT YOUR OWN RISK AND ACIDMODS AND I TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DAMAGE THAT MAY OCCUR.

So, the reverse engineering of monitoring the button signals and then having the PIC replicate the signals correctly was a good adventure. First up (for the technically inclined) is that this mod uses the PIC18F14K50 and a modified bootloader to hold the firmware. The bootlaoder was modified to use only one LED and keep the outputs in a safe condition for the PS3 controller during firmware updates. Then came the modding: The LED was installed into the PS3 button using a dual red/green SMD.

The tact button for enabling the bootloader and getting the controller into USB mode was installed on the top of the controller:

The USB port was fashioned from a 2.5mm plug and jack. The finished product was very sleek looking (too bad the tact looks ugly).

I know what your thinking: Why not use the USB port on the controller? I did not fully test the possibility, but there is a chance that wiring both USB ports together could result in either the PIC getting reallt messed up while your chargin the PS3, or you could lose the ability to charge your PS3 from now on. The PS3 requires a USB pre-amble to charge from the USB port. You cannot simply use a 5V source with a USB cable end. The PS3 will shut itself off if it does not get the proper communication protocol when it needs to charge. So on to the wire tidying:

I really should have just etched a SMD PCB to get this all in, but I thought I was saving time by free-handing the entire circuit (I was wrong):

In the end, we now have the final mod for Chuck Bittner. A quick demo:

PS3 Remap controller Utility

Here is the main schematic. It shows the components leading to the points on the PS3 PCB:

Here are the PCB points on the V35X board: (pictures credit to RDC (really, who else?))

The VX4.0

and the VX3.0

Once installed, the buttons are disconnected from the PS3 main inputs and the PIC then deciphers the remapping stored in EEPROM and sends out the new signals. This means you can map any button to any other button. You can make all the buttons be DPAD up if you want (but you never should). Another feature is the Toggle/Hold function. You can set the button to toggle its new mapping instead of direct remap. By this I mean you tap the button to make the function turn on and stay on as if you were holding the button down indefinately, and another quick tap would turn the function off. This should help greatly with sight-aiming. One downfall of this mod is that the buttons are originally analog/pressure sensitive. The PIC is programmed to create digital signals, so there is no intermediate values. Remember this for driving games. Another feature is that you can adjust the pressure needed for the PIC to see a button press. You can make the controller very sensitive, or require a good tap to register presses, its your choice.

The following buttons are the ones that can be remapped to each other: X, Circle, Trianlge, Square, R1, R2, L1, L2, DPAD up, DPAD down, DPAD right, DPAD left, right stick click (R3), and left stick click (L3). The analog sticks were left alone (sorry, no southpaw).
The user guide and zip file with all schematics and the PC utility can be downloaded here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?zk1nqsljw8jjl36
http://www.mediafire.com/?b0u2f6r30od6ecl

This has been installed on my own V3.5X Dualshock that I am donating to Chuck. Modded Matt is in the process of testing one of the other versions.

In final mentioning, the bootloader has made it possible to fix any bugs that may be found in the future. It also means that if a remapping feature can be improved, I can create the firmware and it can be added without opening the controller. I will not be adding macros or rapidfire though. If I did that, this would simply not be public in any form or manner. Sorry, I have fed the Ebayers enough already.

And Chuck, I hope this controller helps in some small way, and is a good crutch until they finally make it so that the controller is remappable through the PS3 dashboard.

geraldrubalcava · « **Reply #1 on:** May 18, 2011, 09:21:09 PM »

all i can say is wow! great job man! i would like to try this one day. Hopefully i can do this without destroying more that 3 controllers lol! great job!

toadzilla · « **Reply #2 on:** May 18, 2011, 10:01:10 PM »

all i gotta say hazer is im truly amazed on how much work you put in to this its people like u that make the world go around

1TONpete · « **Reply #3 on:** May 18, 2011, 10:31:17 PM »

Just wow.

I am all for helping disabled gamers too man. Thank you.

hyper999 · « **Reply #4 on:** May 19, 2011, 12:58:49 AM »

Firstly AWESOME!

and secondly any chance we could have a peak at the source code, or is it under lock and key?

AskACapper · « **Reply #5 on:** May 19, 2011, 01:03:16 PM »

WOW.... I'm speechless and that's not good because now people will think I'm a vegetable!

Hazer I thank you soooooo much wow sir just wow.... i gotta pwn noobs now

Viking360 · « **Reply #6 on:** May 21, 2011, 09:44:00 AM »

Nice work Hazer!

I've got a parallel (albeit commercial project) on my workbench right now. You did this the hard way - we can get 'software-only' (no trace cutting) remapping of the D-pad, square, circle, ex, triangle, R1, R2, L1, L2 without any trace cutting. I don't think I can get software-only remapping of R3 and L3 since those aren't polled the same way that COM1 and COM2 are polled.

Did you tinker at all with software-based remapping? Hazer, this is for a good cause, if we can get the licensing/legal worked out, I would totally be interested in donating source code to help cut down on the complexity of soldering this mod.

Though, as-is, the soldering is not that bad considering the functionality you get out of it! Still much easier to install than that CGNome project that RDC has been brewing for XBOX 360 remappable controller :-)

Again, Kudos again for a top, warm-hearted contribution from Hazer to the community!

Hazer, in the interest of helping disabled gamers, I would also be willing to bankroll selling modchips at-cost with a button remapping on it. You can preflash and lock down the chips and provide the utility for free. At-cost these chips are down in the $2-$5 range depending on what kind of price you can get on assembly all the little bits and pieces. Releasing the .HEX still leaves you open to people selling a button-remapping mod for $30-$50 or something silly like that. Selling pre-flashed,

chips prevents the theft. (assuming you are using the external EEPROM to save the preferences and that could just be left unlocked).

Viking360 · « **Reply #7 on:** May 21, 2011, 10:14:28 AM »

Hazer,

I've got a USB-capable PCBoard designed specifically for the PS3, based on the same PIC18LF14K50 you used. I produced 1,000 of these bare PCB's as a prototype run. There are some minor issues (I placed one of my headers totally backwards, but that's for a commercial custom add-on anyway), and I have my own custom solder pad labels on the board, but otherwise these boards would be perfect for your project.

I'm always up for helping out you and moddedmatt for all the time you donate to the disabled gamer community.

Attached are some pics of my 'paper prototype', the finished chip, and a picture of what an install would look like. I really need to go eat breakfast, but I saw your post before I was able to get my morning cup of coffee and got excited. In any case I would definitely be interested in helping with the project. Let me know your thoughts.

Hazer · « **Reply #8 on:** May 21, 2011, 01:03:40 PM »

Thanks E. I am aware of doing the remap thorugh software only. i discovered it during a timing bug that I had to work through. By this time, I had already cut the traces and soldered everything in and I was primarily working on the software portion only. I looked at the software version and found some circumstnaces that required work-arounds. But at the time, I was making a single controller and already had the circuit completed.

This was a few months ago. Most of my time has been spent troubleshooting firmware and PC software to complete this. I wanted to be done in 4 weeks, it took me 6 months (more of a matter of how much free time I have, not how hard it was to design). I plan to review the software version again, but for this mod I have a good comfort level with this circuit. When it comes to personal preference, I am not a fan of simply forcing voltage onto the controllers original circuitry.

So now the decision is, do I review the software remap to get rid of 2 wires, 4 resistors, and 2 trace cuts. This would benefit anybody replicating the circuit for future installs. The problem would be (as you already know) the main routine to handle the pulse train would have to be rewritten. Over-all it probably would not be too bad. Under normal circumstances, maybe 2 weks. Under current circumstances, 3 months. Again, I started this purely with the intention of giving Chuck the controller. Matt was helping me testing. Also, I was sharing the files with Matt due to his dedication to mods for abled gamers. It was only recently did I even consider making this public in any way. But by keepingthe source, I do not see enough people talented enough to steal design. Lets face it, if those people were out there, you would have had much more competition on the original V360 chip.

I guess what I am saying is I think I have provided enough. I actually have been trying to get to a point to work on a project for myself. If I spend any more time on this, it would only be to make things easier for other people to install this for themselves. But heres the way I look at it: looking at the level of modding done on most abled gamer controllers, this circuit is simple (look at Matts and others complete reconfiguring of the physical button layouts). Also, this circuit is just complex enough to keep the Ebayers from profitting off of it (without the source). I dont see much of a commercial market for remapping without macros or rapidfire anyway.

If anyone did want to contribute, maybe someone could get this on a SMD PCB in it current form. But I think I am going to step back for a bit.

Viking360 · « **Reply #9 on:** May 21, 2011, 02:44:13 PM »

Quote from: Hazer on May 21, 2011, 01:03:40 PM

I guess what I am saying is I think I have provided enough. I actually have been trying to get to a point to work on a project for myself. If I spend any more time on this, it would only be to make things easier for other people to install this for themselves. But heres the way I look at it: looking at the level of modding done on most abled gamer controllers, this circuit is simple (look at Matts and others complete reconfiguring of the physical button layouts). Also, this circuit is just complex enough to keep the Ebayers from profitting off of it (without the source). I dont see much of a commercial market for remapping without macros or rapidfire anyway.

Totally agreed and understood! :-) I have been having the same 'fun' working with the Microchip USB libraries customizing the bootloader. Ironically it is now lunchtime for me :-) I will check back on this thread in a bit.

geraldrubalcava · « **Reply #10 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:10:50 AM »

Hey gazer I'm just wondering. I have a Bluetooth module and it uses ttl signals. Is it possible to intead of having a USB jack sicking out having a Bluetooth module with the serial to program it wirelessly and it won't interfer with ether the USB and the Bluetooth signal? Thee Bluetooth boards are like 6 bucks and I think it's a good way to have a nice clean controller. Hope you don't mind my question. XD

hyper999 · « **Reply #11 on:** June 03, 2011, 02:50:08 AM »

Quote from: geraldrubalcava on June 03, 2011, 01:10:50 AM

Hey gazer I'm just wondering. I have a Bluetooth module and it uses ttl signals. Is it possible to intead of having a USB jack sicking out having a Bluetooth module with the serial to program it wirelessly and it won't interfer with ether the USB and the Bluetooth signal? Thee Bluetooth boards are like 6 bucks and I think it's a good way to have a nice clean controller. Hope you don't mind my question. XD

I assume you mean the bluetooth module uses TTL serial.

This mod uses USB not TTL serial, so no it won't work.

geraldrubalcava · « **Reply #12 on:** June 03, 2011, 06:37:45 AM »

ea i kinda already knew. i was just guessing if the usb library could be replaced and was able to use the serial library in the code. but most likely not.

Modded Matt · « **Reply #13 on:** June 03, 2011, 07:35:30 AM »

this uses a stereo jack to usb, very clean install.

geraldrubalcava · « **Reply #14 on:** June 03, 2011, 07:58:32 AM »

thats true. i was just thinking of modding it to be wireless remapped. BTW this is one of the best modds ive seen yet! and has a good practical use. love it man!

AskACapper · « **Reply #15 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:56:32 PM »

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED... Video incoming... i love u hazer...

drummerdude · « **Reply #16 on:** June 03, 2011, 05:45:43 PM »

this mod sounds great, makes me wanna go and get me a ps3. anyway this could b possible on 360? cause i would totally do this.

Blazinkaos · « **Reply #17 on:** June 04, 2011, 06:39:27 AM »

Wow thats an interesting mod.

Hazer · « **Reply #18 on:** June 05, 2011, 02:35:37 PM »

Quote

Hey gazer I'm just wondering. I have a Bluetooth module and it uses ttl signals. Is it possible to intead of having a USB jack sicking out having a Bluetooth module with the serial to program it wirelessly and it won't interfer with ether the USB and the Bluetooth signal? Thee Bluetooth boards are like 6 bucks and I think it's a good way to have a nice clean controller. Hope you don't mind my question. XD

Well, I have no idea if the BT module would mess with the controller being wireless or not. If I were to make a wireless connection between the PIC and the and the PC, I would choose RF since its on a completely different band than the controllers conection. Changing the software to use serial is not much fun. I am not that great of a computer programmer, it takes me more time than most. So changing anything to make things easier or cleaner for other people at my expense..... is not going to happen. I did all of this for Chucks benefit. I released the files so other people could use it (as is) for themselves (or other abled gamers designs).

Quote

this mod sounds great, makes me wanna go and get me a ps3. anyway this could b possible on 360? cause i would totally do this.

Completely different controller. Would take another couple months of work. RDC has already done this anyway, with a full software package. You should ask him if he has any hardware you could buy to do your own.

frenulem - No.5417 · « **Reply #19 on:** June 05, 2011, 05:05:47 PM »

Hazer if I could ever become a modder like you I will be so happy. Ther needs to be a Nobel prize for modding or something, cuz damn your a good human being and an amazing modder, I don't think there will ever be a time when I won't be amazed by your products or your dedication. Thank you for everything you do for people. If you ever need anything give me a shout, screw the eBay douches. Anyway FOOKz is good with SMD parts and PCBs

Hazer · « **Reply #20 on:** October 10, 2011, 05:31:33 PM »

Chuck is enjoying his controller:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV6MaHB1pO4

GhoSt · « **Reply #21 on:** October 10, 2011, 06:01:12 PM »

You are the biggest legend hazer. Well done.
and happy gaming to chuck

3D0kassiah · « **Reply #22 on:** October 10, 2011, 07:36:27 PM »

big ups hazer def a force to be reckon with

hyper999 · « **Reply #23 on:** October 11, 2011, 12:20:20 PM »

YOU'RE ON HACK A DAY!!

http://hackaday.com/2011/10/11/playstation-3-controller-made-fully-remappable/

Modded Matt · « **Reply #24 on:** October 11, 2011, 12:26:49 PM »

Quote from: hyper999 on October 11, 2011, 12:20:20 PM

YOU'RE ON HACK A DAY!!

http://hackaday.com/2011/10/11/playstation-3-controller-made-fully-remappable/

I sent it to all the news sites last night. I wish they would have posted my article with it stating some of Hazer's other accomplishments.

devilinops · « **Reply #25 on:** October 22, 2011, 04:42:25 PM »

Hi i was wondering if you could tell me where to solder the 3 wire to if i was going to use a mini usb port since i don't have a male to usb 2.5 also sorry but i couldn't figure out what R1 was u have a u$1 near it but if that's the value idk what it is then.

Modded Matt · « **Reply #26 on:** October 22, 2011, 05:01:48 PM »

pins 18, 19 and ground

devilinops · « **Reply #27 on:** October 22, 2011, 05:20:47 PM »

oh sorry matt i ment where would i solder to the female mini usb port since its got 5 solder spots since i don't have a 2.5 male end

Hazer · « **Reply #28 on:** October 22, 2011, 08:37:35 PM »

Connector pinouts:

http://pinouts.ws/usb-pinout.html

On the PIC:
Pin 18 is D-
Pin 19 is D+

Rodent · « **Reply #29 on:** October 23, 2011, 03:24:24 AM »

Hazer Nice work!!! Awesome job once again, Happy Gamming Chuck ,also hope your gaming is out of this world now

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Author Topic: PS3 Remappable controller and code **updated** (Read 57544 times)

Author Topic: PS3 Remappable controller and code updated (Read 57544 times)