How to fix PS2 Model H buttons not working

[@hashrulsubzero]

Great job on fixing this controller. First time seeing someone who does a conversion from a non-detachable conductive ribbon cable from the connector (original from manufacturing) to the ones that does. I do have 2 of 3 DualShock 2 controllers that has one of the buttons stopped working consistently. I'm definitely gonna try fixing that as it's about time I did something to it.

[@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791]

How did it go?

[@hashrulsubzero]

@@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791 currently, I'm waiting for the replacement parts to arrived.

[@richardstone8615]

@@hashrulsubzerohow did it go

[@SkillfulCurve]

Who knows​@@richardstone8615

[@sir_christmas_leopold_duckson]

Nicely done. I actually didn't realize you could pop the L and R buttons back in after the shell is back together, so I'll keep that in mind the next time I do one of these. I'm pretty impressed that you soldered those small pins without extra flux too.

[@turji]

Same here, flux is king. And kester rosin core 40/60 leaded. U can pop all the sholder buttons in after.

[@bartholomewfargo]

Excellent - I had trouble getting the L2 and R2 triggers to sit properly with the little contact pads behind them, but as you demonstrated it was much easier to close the shell and pop the triggers in afterward. I appreciate the help - looking forward to new repair videos!

[@neiliosTM]

I used this guide along with a replacement membrane and connector I got on eBay. Repair successful! Thank you for your time to make this very helpful video.

[@biggboiXL]

Just orded a my first soldering iron kit, somehow I feel confident I can do this. Thanks Robin! I look forward to future videos!

[@rishichauhan86]

How did it go? I'm going to try this also.

[@GenesHand]

Great video! I tried to desolder the pins and lifted like 8 of the pads... I think that It can be fixed by soldering wires from the connector to the chip following the traces.

[@buxtech]

Using hot air or soldering iron?

[@oldgamesfixed4699]

Cool. These models usually fail the most, but they have the coolest button feel, in my opinion. Also, this model didn't get recognized by my PC through an adaptor, even though it works on PS2. Not sure if that's a common issue or just the adaptors lack of compatibility. I have tried model A's on the adaptor to PC and they work great. I use that blue V shaped adapter from Aliexpress.

[@fckgooogle1000x]

Yeah, I've got a silver controller and the feel of each button is the best out of any PS2 controller I've handled but of course it failed on me

[@MikeleKonstantyFiedorowiczIV]

MY WORKmy working and its much more easier to disemble then A and yes buttons are more responsible i mean 4 way clicks

[@Nohansonlyzuul]

What system and software are you using to test the controller?

[@robinsrepairs6805]

I'm using a PS2 running the program Free MacBoot and using the Padtest option!

[@johnheaton6705]

It can be added to a FreeMCBoot memory card and is 'essetial' to this kind of repair as it will show drift accurately unlike some of the windows ones as well as how hard you press PS2 buttons, plus it will work on 'most' PS1/2 pads, dance mats, wheels/pedals or PS1 light guns including showing accuracy of the pointer on screen if your test TV is CRT. The only controllers that don't work well or at all are unique ones like the Namco NEGCon and a few other odd-ball ones like that.

[@eduartmisiraj8031]

It's great to see someone else showing how to fix PS2 controllers. The flex boards on the PS2 are low quality so they are all going bad by now. I have fixed countless myself. 🙂 Great job 👍🏻

[@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791]

What goes wrong? Why do they fail?

[@joshkelly4682]

​@@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791 the traces rot most likely

[@DarmokAtTanagra]

@@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791 They get a thin layer of oxidation that can be easily removed with a rubber eraser. They don't fail and the traces certainly don't "rot". This is a total overkill way to repair these things but then again replacement flex pcb's for these are so cheap it might be worth it to just get a new one rather than go through the trial and error of getting rid of the oxidation.

[@saaaaaaaaadasda]

@@DarmokAtTanagra Does this method with eraser works with H models? Since you can't just easily uplug the ribbon, does that layer is visible and should do that if almost everything but stick and select start buttons are working? Or only where it ends on the soldered connector. I have silver gamepad that have clean sticks and buttons, meaning that it's not actually was used that much yet, most buttons don't work.

[@MrCashoos]

That should be a different revision of the Dualshock 2 because mine doesn't have that conector soldered to the board but instead is just the ribbon cable making contact with exposed tracks on the board and is put in place with two plastic pins to align it correctly and a small cushion that is mounted on one of the plastic shells that press it against the board to assure contact.

[@turji]

Yeah, its atleast 5

[@WellKuba-MostlyRETROChannel]

Brilliant job Miss, thank you very much for your knowledge :)

[@radiobug63]

Can you give us links to get the multi pin connectors and sensor membranes for this model controller, please. Awesome job you do on this instructional! Thank you kindly, Miss Robin!

[@rigoloweb4762]

hello, this video helped me accomplish my repair. I had a slightly too large slot (1 pin too much) but I plugged the ribbon to the "right" of the slot (first pad is "null, it seems useless"). Also, if someone ripped the 9th pad (above the 'N' of CN2), I think it's ok since mine is ripped of and the controller is working fine.

[@corkyuk]

Very good, simple, straight to the point instructional video. I’m currently waiting for my replacement films to arrive from AliExpress to repair my model H controller. Looking forward to the job actually.

[@Sickentist]

Thanks for the video. Where do we get the replacement contact membranes? Also is there any way to just refurbish the original when only a few buttons don’t work? I’ve seen some people saying something about using aluminum foil.

[@robinsrepairs6805]

I got my replacement parts from Aliexpress. This listing has both the connector pins and ribbon cables: www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002090999166.html As for fixing a few buttons not firing, the only thing I would recommend trying first is cleaning the contacts on the button sheet (the black dots on the front) and the little rubber pieces that press against them with some alcohol. If that doesn't work then the only method I know to fix them is this one.

[@Sickentist]

@@robinsrepairs6805 thanks. yea cleaning them didn't work, so i guess i gotta order some of these. have you ever gotten any replacements that don't work? while i wait for these replacements from china, i'll try some of the offbeat repair methods i'm finding. apparently coloring the black contacts of these model H's with a pencil can supposedly get the resistance back where it needs to be to work properly. ive subscribed & hope to see some more controller repair videos from you.

[@robinsrepairs6805]

Thanks for subscribing! I have never tried the pencil method but hopefully it helps in the meantime! I usually order a lot at a time but I've definitely gotten a few button sheets that haven't worked before. Sometimes cleaning where they touch the connector helps, but ordering a few wouldn't hurt, just incase.

[@stevencooney761]

@@Sickentist I also have a controller where just one button does not work. I’ll have to clean it.

[@williamdondas9132]

thanks for sharing your skills with us! greetings from brazil!

[@RetroGamesLab]

I’m testing this solution, thanks!!! (Great channel!!!) +1 sub!

[@danielzelpher7335]

Good video. You should consider making more.

[@henry3397]

Which is the model that has the foam pad on the back case that just presses down on the ribbon connector? Super good design I thought compared to the others. Also, mine has this design, and the buttons still work (I took it apart for cleaning), so it might be a more robust design too!

[@alexj.f.kennedy6084]

I have a Model H controller as well, it started pressing by itself sometimes and the circle button just died all together. I did replace the membrane, i did not have to desolder anything tho, I just unplugged it and replugged the new in and that was it. What worries me a little is that you soldered on it while it was connected meaning it had power and everything, maybe not the best idea to do that

[@jesusiskingofkingss]

i bought a H model from a seller that refurbishes them im anxiously waiting for it

[@VVGRestoration]

Very good repair. I bought a big box of 19 of these controllers from Ebay and 18 of them had the same fault - buttons not working due to a defective membrane PCB. I got some on Ebay but they're the wrong type to I have to get some different ones.

[@81hlogan]

Hey I used your video to fix my controller so thanks heaps. When are you making another video??

[@norbertomianijunior2738]

Excellent, but on you experience my controller doent work any buttons or the analog sticks, but the red light is on with push the buton analog. So a tested every cable on controler port with multimeter and all OK, Im stated thinking that the problem is the Chipset of contorller. Did u see some problem like that ?

[@tylerlabine9360]

I'm fairly new to soldering. Is there a reason u didn't hear the source before applying the solder

[@Lowkey_Kenny_jwz]

Hi Robin, thanks you for you're time making this video. I have a couple of A and H controllers broke down. I found on Aliexpress 18 and 19 pins ribbon cables with model nr SA1Q42A and SA1Q43A. Do you know which ones are the best for these controllers? And for the connector can i use the 18 pins for both controllers? gz

[@FranciscoMartinez-mg6yg]

Where did you buy the replacement ribbon cable and connector?

[@MichaelDaponte-fy9ji]

Good job think I can do this now.thank you

[@youngefe5199]

Gracias realmente explica super bien el paso a paso, literal es el único video que explica bien la reparación

[@Roby0593]

How i can understand if that component you used to replace is the same compatible on my joystick ?

[@maximilianpfeiffer3328]

What is with model A? Is the repair complete different?

[@Meninx87]

Is it possible that the main chip on the pcb of the controller could be the reason why some buttons stop working? Or is there a practical way to find out?

[@CywlexeemTacac]

I check my buttons using my PC and a USB adapter. PS1 controller works just fine, but PS2 controller won't work. It shows some hectic button pressing at the start for about a second without me pressing anything and then just dies. Should I look for a new PCB?

[@DamienNightmarish]

My dualshock 2 has unresponsive buttons. It's needed some extra pressure to work. Do I have to change the conductive mesh to fix it?

[@danielisbell]

Does the replacement part you used support analog button presses? If not, do you know of a version that does?

[@buxtech]

I've replaced the pcb and 18 pin connect, still showing all buttons firing (255 reading) yet both joysticks still work -1 to 1. Any ideas? Perhaps I should try another sheet?

[@kevint55]

Thanks so much. Really like how you take your time and explain everything. I need to learn how to solder so that I can fix my retro consoles. For example replacing Capacitors on original Xbox. Would love to see more videos on Soldering and Retro Console stuff.

[@lord_beethoven1169]

I have the controller that just has the floating ribbon cable instead of the one with the latch. It seems to be impossible to restore a controller with that setup.

[@manwhoeatsfishinbedwithlig3791]

I hate those ones I opened one and was like well fuck we’re done

[@johnheaton6705]

They have a sponge pad about 3mm by 26mm that has to be bang on inside or no buttons work, it often shifts while you put it back together

[@typermx]

Very clear and very knowledgeable. I’m waiting for my parts .

[@anshumangamerji6181]

Thankyou so much for this

[@briansantiago3223]

Beathiful movie, Rachel keep it up, blessings to you.

[@z4nn1ch]

sadly I ripped the contacts from the logic board due to my heat gun not bringing the needed 400° heat..unfortunately

[@GenesHand]

Same thing happened to me you could try to solder wires from the connector directly to the chip and other points following the traces.

[@KL-zt6jx]

That sucks yannik. Soldering is tough in the beginning. Just take the board of a broken device and start soldering and unsoldering. You'll be a pro in no time. And don't forget to use flux. That helps enormously.

[@vigi1antvort3x41]

I have a question. How do you know if it's the motherboard or the ribbons that is what needs to be fixed? My controllers analog sticks, start, select, analog, and x button work but everything else doesn't work.

[@robinsrepairs6805]

Usually the problem is the ribbon cable. If cleaning it doesn't work then that's how you would know that the actual motherboard has a problem

[@z4nn1ch]

Great work!

[@gottosahani7571]

Thanks for the video

[@bliiblaablue]

There are two similar ribbon cables for model H I assume, these are SA1Q42A and SA1Q43A. Any idea what's the difference and why I should choose the SA1Q42A instead?

[@hashrulsubzero]

It depends what model does the ribbon cable in your DualShock 2 controller has as those two models of ribbon cable work for a specific controller's PCB. Do check the numbers first before ordering.

[@buxtech]

I think they are wired a little different but generally work the same. The 43A is wider in the part of the membrane that controls the L2/R2 buttons so it may not fit right in some controller configurations. There could be other reasons, but that's what I was able to conclude after I ordered some of both parts.

[@DarmokAtTanagra]

I have worked with many flex pcb's and they don't just mysteriously fail. The contacts get oxidized - either the contacts on the flex pcb or the contacts on the underside of the buttons, or both. It is not that hard to clean them, a nice clean rubber eraser works well. Never use alcohol or any type of solvent as that can fatally damage the flex pcb.

[@muhammadeltaif8974]

Please whats rhe fiferents between models A and H

[@natanteam]

So nice!

[@james8632]

so use the 18 pin or 19 pin connectors?

[@turji]

U can use both.

[@pt1802]

very cool tutorial , more ps2 videos please

[@Macdaddyjarvis]

Where can these parts be purchased?

[@electrofoxx1276]

Aliexpress

[@fend0]

For me, that ribbon cable model doesn't work.. i have to buy another one but the 43 model ribbon cable and work like it should 👌🏻

[@Roby0593]

what program do you use ?

[@TheEmeraldReel]

Brill video - great to see a recent video on fixing a 'H' controller as it is very clear and easy to follow - do you have a link to the holder you are using - I have helping hands but the holder you are using looks more stable - thanks.

[@robinsrepairs6805]

Thank you! Unfortunately the holder was given to me so I don't have a link, but I assume you could find something on Amazon or the like!

[@robinsrepairs6805]

Actually, I just looked it up on Amazon and found the same one! www.amazon.com/Aven-17010-Adjustable-Circuit-Holder/dp/B00Q2TTQEE/ref=asc_df_B00Q2TTQEE/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312065327708&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8292372672587826534&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9030098&hvtargid=pla-343408320652&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=60223475657&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312065327708&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8292372672587826534&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9030098&hvtargid=pla-343408320652

[@heberthsarmiento6925]

Flaca yo no sabia que se podia poner al Final los botones R y L acaso no se Rompen de tanta presion?

[@turji]

Thats the way to do it. If u want to make problems for yourself, u can put them in before, but thats just stupid🙄

[@heberthsarmiento6925]

@@turji Gracias Flaca!!! entonces voy a dejarme de Estupideces y lo voy a hacer como Tu.

[@izzzzzz6]

Why would anyone have issues disconnecting the ribbon cable? It just unplugs.

[@KL-zt6jx]

Not on most ps2 controllers. The connector is part of the membrane and needs to be unsoldered.

[@turji]

Use flux when u solder, its 10 times faster and easier👍

[@phantomsvk5128]

whats that program called? and how can i conect controller to that program?

[@robinsrepairs6805]

I'm using a PS2 running the program Free MacBoot and using the Padtest option!

[@johnheaton6705]

It can be added to a FreeMCBoot memory card and is 'essetial' to this kind of repair as it will show drift accurately unlike some of the windows ones as well as how hard you press PS2 buttons, plus it will work on 'most' PS1/2 pads, dance mats, wheels/pedals or PS1 light guns including showing accuracy of the pointer on screen if your test TV is CRT. The only controllers that don't work well or at all are unique ones like the Namco NEGCon and a few other odd-ball ones like that.

[@marciorocha-offrio3506]

Obrigado...você me ajudou. Abraços do BR

[@cristiandv5255]

The Best of friend.

[@amir1872]

ما هو اسم البرنامج المستخدم على الكمبيوتر ؟

[@MikeleKonstantyFiedorowiczIV]

h is easiest to disembly and clean, A is much harder.

[@oandrsoncosta9032]

#talvez seja esses os defeitos dos meus.os flet,,dos controles.

[@ennesimo84]

ThanksSSSSSSSSSSS

[@izzzzzz6]

Almost 400C is this a joke? No Flux? No solder braid for the cleanup? Firstly i don't understand why anyone would change the connector, what is the chance there is an issue with it? Was the reasoning behind this explained? No link on where to get the new circuit / ribbon cable? Please.... So basically the video should be. Where to buy a new ribbon circuit and how to unplug the old one and plug new one in. And no explanation as to how to get the testing software? How is any of this helpful?

[@KL-zt6jx]

400C is ok as long as you don't keep pointing it to a single point. Flux would have been advised, but sometimes you can get away with it. And you don't really need to wick off the old solder. She did add new solder. And tbh, she did a good job in general. I've seen way way worse solder jobs. As long as the end result is good, I'd be happy too. The connector is part of the membrane in most cases, so you really need to unsolder it and then add a connector for the new membrane. You can't just unplug the old membrane and plug in the new one. Not with these type of dualshock2 controllers. Check out videos by other people repairing dualshock2 controllers and you'll see. Cheers.

[@KL-zt6jx]

She did address the program used in multiple comments.

[@Thinkon44t5]

i tried fixing my old ps2 controller for my lil brother like this... i made it worse so i bought new used ones😂

[@Aryan_Sanan]

How to fix Chinese ps2 controller copy

[@johnheaton6705]

They were badly made, continuity check everything with a meter, the ones I've seen don't use membranes. If yours has a graphite ring a few inches from the connector like a real one, check inside the plastic 'box', it will be empty !

[@Aryan_Sanan]

@@johnheaton6705 my friend had a orginal ps2 controller but controller outter shell was broken then i got idea and i smartly switched orginal pcb of orignal ps2 controller to chinese one but removed the fat connector wire ps2 ,On that place solded the normal usb B charging cabel on the orginal ps2 controller becaz wanted to use it in my computer, Now it works like charm. Now i have orginal ps2 controller in a chinese ps2 shell.

[@johnheaton6705]

@@Aryan_Sanan That is cool, can you do a video on it for YT ?

[@zeldahicham4259]

لدي نفس المشكل

[@HalCondor999144000]

Esa es loquerisimo, lo corto esa es loca 🥰

[@retromojo1]

not worth bothering ... I buy used sony controllers for 5 dollars in bulk...... so if it takes me more than 5 minutes for a fix for that then its just a parts donor..... I won't make less that 40 an hour dealing in retro game systems....

[@AHu-vw2ji]

What happens when official PS2 controllers are in short supply?