PS5 Controller / Bluetooth Connectivity Issues and now causing a “Blue Screen”

Understanding Bluetooth and Controller Connectivity Challenges on Windows 11: A Case Study

In today’s gaming and computing environment, seamless connectivity between peripherals and PCs is essential for an optimal user experience. However, users sometimes encounter technical issues that disrupt this harmony, such as Bluetooth malfunctions or hardware conflicts. This article explores a real-world scenario involving Bluetooth connectivity problems on Windows 11, particularly focusing on connecting PlayStation 5 controllers via Bluetooth, and the subsequent occurrence of system errors like Blue Screens.

Scenario Overview

The user operates a Windows 11 PC equipped with an Intel Bluetooth and Wireless chipset inserted into the motherboard. Despite keeping both the Windows OS and device firmware fully updated, they experienced a sudden failure of Bluetooth functionality last week. The Bluetooth hardware was recognized by the system, yet the “Bluetooth and Devices” section failed to display connectivity status, signifying a deeper software or driver issue.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connectivity

Initial troubleshooting involved multiple steps to restore Bluetooth functionality. These likely included:

Restarting Bluetooth services via Windows Service Manager
Updating or reinstalling Bluetooth drivers
Checking device manager for hardware conflicts
Ensuring Bluetooth is enabled in system settings

Once Bluetooth was successfully re-established, the user attempted to connect their PlayStation 5 controllers. The connection process involved turning on the controllers, which then appeared to connect successfully but immediately shut off. The underlying issue appeared to be a disagreement between the controller’s battery status reported by the device and the actual charge level.

Battery Status Discrepancies

The controllers, despite being fully charged and displaying as such on their docks, reported zero battery when attempting Bluetooth pairing. This inconsistency could stem from:

Firmware or driver mismatches
The Windows Bluetooth stack misreporting device status
Controller firmware errors, although firmware was confirmed up-to-date via the PS Accessories app

Additionally, the user noted that using a wired connection with DS4Windows reported a 100% battery level, suggesting that Windows may not be accurately reading the battery status wirelessly.

System Stability and Blue Screen Errors

In a subsequent attempt to connect the controllers via wired mode, the user experienced a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This critical system error indicates a possible driver conflict or hardware compatibility issue, especially when interfacing with third-party software like Vanguard, Riot’s anti-cheating platform.

Possible causes include: