How To Fix PS5 PSVR USB Error PS5 Error?

With the release of the PS5, some aspects of its functionality still raise questions. A notable shortcoming is its USB hub support.

Sony has now included USB ports on the back of the console, addressing a long-standing issue.

The two USB ports on the PS5’s rear are insufficient for users with numerous USB accessories.

Connecting devices like external drives, PSVR, steering wheels, gear sticks, and other controllers can be problematic if front ports are not used, especially with the default setup.

On the PS4, a powered USB hub connected to the front and direct connection of external disks addressed this issue effectively. However, this solution only works with the PS5.

What’s the Issue? 

On the PS5, using the same setup—one rear port for an external drive and the other with a USB hub—fails to work properly.

Additionally, the PSVR camera now requires a USB adapter (which is free but requires a VR-PU serial number). This adapter occupies another port.

Repeatedly unplugging and reconnecting the USB accessories was necessary for the PS5 to recognize them (visible in the camera settings) occasionally.

However, after a reboot, the camera would often show up as disconnected again.

Different USB ports and a new USB hub were tested, but the same issues occurred.

The USB hub that functioned well with the PS4 and another hub produced similar results.

A potential solution has been identified after extensive testing and numerous console reboots.

What’s the Cause? 

The issue is related to the hub’s power supply. Both tested hubs had external power sources, a common practice to ensure adequate power when the host device’s USB port may be insufficient.

What’s the Solution? 

Disconnecting the external power from the USB hubs led to consistent functionality, even after rebooting the console.

The setup included various devices connected to the hub and an external HDD directly attached to the back:

• Thrustmaster Gear Shifter

• PlayStation Classic

• Move controller dock

• PS VR Processing Unit

• Thrustmaster Steering Wheel

• PS VR Camera via USB adapter

• USB powered lighting

All listed devices function correctly when the PS5 is powered on or in standby mode with USB power enabled.

This setup, however, could be better for using the lighting and PlayStation Classic when the PS5 is off. Still, it avoids needing to adjust cables or use the front ports constantly.

The PS5 may not work well with external hubs that have their power sources.

This issue might be specific to this unit, as it is not widely reported, or perhaps most users need to utilize USB hubs.

Sharing this experience might be useful for others who encounter similar problems.

The issue might stem from the PS5’s SuperSpeed USB 3 ports, which provide significantly more power than older USB versions.

This increased power could render the USB hub’s power adapter unnecessary or cause it to interfere with the PS5’s ability to detect devices.

Whether this will be addressed in a future system update is something only Sony can decide.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Check Cable Connections

Ensure that all the cables and connections are secure. Double-check that the PSVR camera, USB hub, and other connected devices are plugged in correctly.

Loose or faulty connections can often cause recognition issues. Additionally, the USB ports on the PS5 should be inspected for any debris or damage that might interfere with connectivity.

Restarting the Console

A simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Power off the PS5 entirely by holding the power button until the system shuts down.

Wait a few moments before turning it back on. This can reset the system’s USB ports and help recognize the connected devices correctly.

If the issue persists after a restart, further troubleshooting may be required.

Addressing Power Supply Issues

The Role of External Power Adapters  

External power adapters for USB hubs are designed to provide additional power to connected devices, primarily when the host device’s USB ports may not deliver sufficient power.

However, in the case of the PS5, these adapters might not be necessary and could disrupt the proper functioning of connected devices.

The PS5’s SuperSpeed USB 3 ports can supply substantial power on their own, which may render the external adapter redundant or even counterproductive.

Testing Without External Power 

To determine if the external power adapter is causing issues, disconnect it and test the USB hub with the PS5 using only the power supplied by the console’s USB ports.

This approach helps to identify if the adapter is interfering with the PS5’s ability to recognize and work with connected devices.

In many cases, removing the adapter allows the hub to function more reliably, as the console can manage the power distribution more effectively without the additional external power source.

This simple adjustment can resolve connectivity issues and ensure all USB devices work as intended.

Optimizing USB Hub Performance

Selecting the right USB hub ensures all your devices work seamlessly with the PS5.

Choose a hub for high-power and high-speed connections, ideally USB 3.0 or later.

A hub with sufficient power delivery capabilities can prevent issues related to insufficient power supply, which might otherwise disrupt the functioning of connected devices.

Proper hub configuration is equally important. Ensure the hub is connected to a rear USB port on the PS5, as these ports typically provide better power and data transfer rates than front ports.

Avoid overloading the hub by connecting too many devices, leading to power and recognition problems.

Keep the hub’s firmware updated if it can, as updates can improve compatibility and performance. 

If problems persist, consider using a powered USB hub with an external power supply.

This can help mitigate issues related to power drawn from the PS5’s USB ports, ensuring that all connected devices receive adequate power.

Testing different hubs and configurations may help identify the most stable setup for your needs.

Updating and Rebooting

Check for any available system updates to resolve the PS5 PSVR USB error.

Sony frequently releases firmware updates that address bugs and enhance system performance.

Navigate to Settings on your PS5, select “System Software,” and then choose “System Software Update and Settings.”

Connect your console to the internet and follow the prompts to install updates.

Keeping your system software current can resolve compatibility issues and improve overall functionality.

Rebooting the console is another essential step in troubleshooting.

Sometimes, simply restarting the PS5 can clear temporary glitches and refresh connections.

Hold down the power button to perform a reboot until the system turns off completely, then wait a few moments before turning it back on.

This action can help reset any temporary issues and re-establish proper communication with connected devices.

If problems persist after updating and rebooting, further troubleshooting or additional solutions may be necessary.

Additional Solutions and Workarounds

Exploring additional solutions might be necessary if standard troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the PS5 PSVR USB error.

One practical approach is to experiment with different USB ports on the PS5.

While the rear ports are typically preferred for a cleaner setup, the front ports may sometimes offer better compatibility with certain accessories or hubs.

Testing devices with both front and rear ports can help identify if port-specific issues are causing the problem.

Another potential workaround involves reconfiguring the setup to minimize USB conflicts.

For instance, unplugging less critical devices and connecting only essential ones can help determine if the issue lies with a specific accessory or the overall USB load.

Additionally, using a USB hub with its power supply may resolve power-related issues.

However, it’s vital to ensure that the hub is compatible with the PS5 and does not interfere with device detection.

If these steps do not alleviate the problem, checking online forums and communities can be helpful.

Other users might have encountered and resolved similar issues, and their experiences can provide valuable insights.

When to Seek Professional Help?

If the issue persists despite trying various troubleshooting guides, you may need professional assistance.

Persistent problems with the PS5 PSVR USB error could indicate a hardware malfunction or a deeper compatibility issue that basic fixes cannot resolve.

Contacting Sony Support is a crucial step in such cases.

Their technical team can provide more advanced diagnostics and guidance tailored to the specific problem.

They may offer solutions or repairs that are not publicly documented.

Additionally, consider checking your warranty status before reaching out.

If your PS5 or PSVR is still under warranty, you might be eligible for free repairs or a replacement.

Review your warranty terms and contact Sony Support to discuss your options.

Sometimes, they advise sending in your console or accessories for further examination.

Ensuring all troubleshooting steps have been exhausted before seeking professional help will make the support process smoother and more efficient.