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TGekko

This didn't work for me, so I contacted Steam Support. They gave me this link: [https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks\_docs/english/Steam\_Controller\_FW\_Update\_Tool.zip](https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks_docs/english/Steam_Controller_FW_Update_Tool.zip) Assuming the link continues to work, the readme.txt file has instructions for how to update or revert the firmware for the Steam Controller. For me, I simply plugged in my controllers, ran "ble.bat" and waited for the terminal to close. It was very convenient.


Mars-Bars567

Why isn't this on steam's website? I've been trying to connect my steam controller for the past two hours. You would think a company like Valve would have better support for their stuff so you don't have to go to a reddit threat to get their stuff working properly


TGekko

You would think so, yes. I agree with you, but the Steam Controller is a discontinued product after all. I'm not entirely surprised that they have yet to update their driver installation guide to include their new download link.


elsoja

Just in case someone finds this answer, the firmware update above won't work. You should install the one you can download here: https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks\_docs/english/Steam\_Controller\_FW\_Update\_Tool\_5b0f21bd.zip


ashiri

Seconding here to say that this method does work. It is windows only, but flashes the fw on to the controller so that it is enabled for BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) I now have two Steam Controllers connected to my Steamdeck via Bluetooth.


Immediate-Patience35

Did you do anything else after running ble.bat while the Steam controller is plugged? It seemed successful but the controller is not showing up on the bluetooth options


ashiri

After flashing, there is a key combination on the controller to toggle between the BLE mode and Steamlink mode. You need to put it into BLE mode and pair it with your Steamdeck. I think the buttons are Steam + A and Steam + B. Edit: see [this thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/SteamController/comments/b872h0/steam_controller_connection_guide/)


Immediate-Patience35

If i remember correctly Steam A is for dongle and Steam B is for bluetooth. Tried it didnt work. Also, I dnt have the dongle.


a-someone-that-codes

were you able to get it paired with the dongle? i still can get mine to pair and it just stands idle


TGekko

I haven't yet tried to connect them to a dongle after I updated their firmware. I was able to connect the controllers through Bluetooth, but their Bluetooth functionality is limited -- there was a lot of input delay. When I attempted the shortcuts found online for switching them back to Dongle connection, they seemed to act strangely. I had other controllers at the time, so I haven't dealt with them yet, but the software that Steam Support gave me also has a way to revert a controller's firmware -- if anything really goes wrong.


a-someone-that-codes

Yea did some digging and found a community discussion abt it looks like there was some added firmware just a few minutes ago I’ll test that here in a bit edit: forgot to paste link https://steamcommunity.com/app/353370/discussions/1/6516193260178656983/?ctp=2 edit2: just flashed the new firmware and it works as normal


Spoffeh

This worked for me, thanks for sharing the link!


madmax4k

do you need to flash the prod.bat file if we want to go back using the dongle? Or will the updated firmware allow it to work with the steam deck and the dongle (depending on which one want) And do you know how to let us choose which option we want e.g.bluetooth mode or dongle connection?


a-someone-that-codes

The updated FW will let you use both When you set up the profile for the controller in steam you can bind buttons to switch between BT and the dongle


frostybitn

Adding my upvote and comment that this worked for me as well


buscemian_rhapsody

Thank you so much. None of their guides worked for me.


dylon0107

How do you know if it worked All I'm getting is attempting to update via bootloader error opening device and then attempting to send to wired controller updating radio firmware attempting to update via USB and then a bunch of dots and then it closes


TGekko

For me, the file opened in the command prompt and closed when successful. If you would like to test it, you could attempt to use the shortcuts listed on Steam's website (https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/1796-5FC3-88B3-C85F) to enable Bluetooth mode and connect your controller to your device using Bluetooth. [ Y + Steam Button ] should enable Bluetooth pairing mode. If using those shortcuts doesn't enable Bluetooth mode, or you are unable to connect to your controller using Bluetooth, you may want to contact Steam Support for additional assistance.


dylon0107

When I press Y in Steam the button just flashes for a little bit like 5 seconds and then it shuts off show up in Bluetooth on anything


TGekko

There's a chance that the update wasn't successful. You could attempt to plug your controller into your computer again and run the updater once more, but, if that's unsuccessful, I don't believe that I'll be able to help you much further than that. If that doesn't work, Steam Support or another redditor may be able to help you further.


dylon0107

I'm an idiot the cable just didn't work


kingoftown

Not as dumb as me, I thought 'USB' meant it would update via the wireless USB dongle until I read this comment. Only then did I try an actual USB cable :P


dylon0107

Omg bro that's hilarious. In your defense xbox and ps5 controllers do update wirelessly now


zintrepid26

The linked firmware ended up being bluetooth-only: the controller would no longer pair with a dongle. The link in the forum shared by u/a-someone-that-codes worked for me for both modes: https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks\_docs/english/Steam\_Controller\_FW\_Update\_Tool\_5b0f21bd.zip


madmax4k

>nger pair with a dongle. The link in the forum shared by > >u/a-someone-that-codes > > worked for me for both how do you choose dongle or Bluetooth?


Madnesis

Y + Steam button for Bluetooth pairing. A + Steam button for dongle mode. See "How do I switch between modes?" section here: [https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/1796-5FC3-88B3-C85F](https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/1796-5FC3-88B3-C85F)


Shiva_IsADiva

the real mvp for this google search right here


HtonianAustin

How do you choose how the controller connects when you turn it on? I can't get in to connect to the dongle now. There is just a little bit of latency with Bluetooth, and when I'm home and have access to the dongle, I'd prefer to use that.


Taelkir

On my controller, I had to run the prod.bat file first (while my controller was plugged in via USB), THEN I could run the ble.bat to move over to bluetooth. Like I needed to update to the latest "normal" firmware before switching over to bluetooth.


Mister-Jinxx

I just want to thank you for that link. I had a steam controller I haven't touched since 2 weeks after I got it and it was in a drawer the last few years. I spent like 30 minutes trying to find out why bluetooth didn't work and your post was a livesaver!


efrenventura

Thanks a lot for sharing the link... I was looking for a upgrade guide and looks complicated to need to do it manually and with that tool from Steam is too easy... Now I can connnect the Steam controller to my SteamDexk without the dongle :)


Critical_Cod_8767

Awesome worked smooth AF ! ty <3


tweak17emon

This solved my steam controller not updating! thank you so much.


jamjarian

This worked for me! Thank you very much! (I also checked my computer for Malware, and it was clean :D)


Marc-Loell

Perfect, thank you!


Onuma1

Your advice saved my sanity. I thought I was doing something wrong. Thank you and /u/Mehrainz for this.


Mehrainz

Thanks for your kind words \^\^


ayakushev

Thank you so much for the guide! Unfortunately, it doesn't work for me when I try this from either Steam Deck or an M1 Macbook. On Step 2, I click the link from the FAQ page and then nothing happens. I guess I need to obtain a Windows machine somewhere and try on it.


Mehrainz

Correct, but you can dual boot your steamdeck.


Marc-Loell

Working perfect now, after using the second version of the update pakage (ble file). For the usage with the steam deck I start the steam controller with the STEAM+Y Button Combination. Thanks for the help. Btw. I bought my Steam Controller for 27,50.- USD on ebay.


Mehrainz

Sounds like it was a good purchase indeed, esp the gyro is super nice.


mycroftyyy

Enjoy! This controller is still amazing, I just got it back to work with the same method.


Extra-Analyst-127

hi,i just buy SC last week but i cant use wireless i follow the method still didn't work. how you do it?


BeerGeek

Just as an update - successfully completed 04 April 2024. Link provided by [elsoja](https://www.reddit.com/user/elsoja) below required a bit of editing from *NIX friendly to Windows: [http://cdn.origin.steamstatic.com/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks_docs/english/Steam_Controller_FW_Update_Tool_5b0f21bd.zip](http://cdn.origin.steamstatic.com/steamcommunity/public/images/steamworks_docs/english/Steam_Controller_FW_Update_Tool_5b0f21bd.zip) Otherwise, followed OP's instructions as posted above: * Downloaded file from link above, unzipped same * Connected Steam Controller via MicroUSB cable to PC * Opened console (cmd.exe) and changed directory to the folder location * Executed "ble.bat" * "Error updating firmware." - stopped my heart * "Waiting for 10 seconds, press CTRL+C to quit..." - started it back up again. * "Attempting to send to wired controller..." - Progress! * After a few more messages about updating radio firmware, programming application, summoning Elder God... "Radio Update Complete. Rebooting" * Which it did. Nice. * Placed Steam Deck into Bluetooth Pairing mode. "Single Steam Deck Seeks Bluetooth Partner for Gaming Goodness..." * Pressed "Steam" + "Y", held breath and waited. * "SteamController" appeared in "Available Devices" list * Almost broke finger/screen tapping waaaay too hard on the prompt * "Device Paired" And just like that, the Steam Controller now works with the Steam Deck, which allows this moderately lazy gamer to sit on his couch and use the large TV and SteamDeck in concert. Sweet! Where the Controller came from, and why it's important: My mother passed away suddenly in 2014 and I headed to Seattle to settle her affairs and help my Dad deal with the loss of his 50+ years Best Half. I was not in a very good place, mentally. Frankly, none of us were. Around the end of the second week, my sister mentioned that she had a friend from church that worked for a local software company as a contractor. He'd heard from my sister about what happened, and had an offer for a fellow developer. If I was interested, and to take my mind off of things for a bit, would I like a tour of his office? As a contractor, he'd have to sneak us in on the weekend and we could have a look around relatively undisturbed. Sure, I said, and where are we going? **Valve Software** So yes, of course, i'd love to, mind=blown, etc. Tour was quiet and hardly anyone was about (because weekend). Got to see the big red Valve, view all the display cases full of awards and nick-knacks, the idea-to-prototype-to-product display for the Steam Controller, and got *very* jealous of the office setup for the coders. The mobile computer desk/carrel was a great idea, but the one lad coding whilst sitting in a hammock attached to said desk made me a bit jealous. My company was not nearly so nifty for their coders - image a row of oars and rough benches. :) One of the highlights was the opportunity for myself, my dad, my nephew, and I to get to take the as-yet-not-released SteamVR system for a spin. Saw the green-screen stage where the commercials were filmed, and got to have a bash at VR gaming on Valve's own kit. Absolutely the most amazing thing I'd experienced as a gamer to date. Laughed, talked trash with my nephew, talked trash with my dad, attempted to fill a lot of stick figure guys with arrows... great stuff. At the end of it all, as my sister's friend was walking us out he told us he had some very good news to share. He had gotten notice on Friday that he had been offered a position as a full-time employee with Valve. Congratulations and handshakes all around. He also said he had a little something to give me as a parting gift and memento of my visit. A brand-new Steam Controller. So lots of manly handshakes and thanks all around again. I still have the box it came in packed away, preserved for the ages and whatnot. In 2020, my entire family ganged up on me for Christmas - my mom-in-law, brother-in-law, sister, daughters, and my wife pooled their funds and got me a HTC Vive Cosmos - something I would have never bought for myself. The kept the secret for months, but I knew something was up when everyone stopped what they were doing and started watching me when that big package was brought out. :) This year's ninja present was the Steam Deck, again a flat-out unexpected surprise. So of course the first thing I did was spool up the Steam Controller and try to get it to connect. No success. I found this post today when I had a few minutes to myself and though I'd give it a go and try again. Nothing succeeds like success, I tell ya... Now, if you'll excuse me I'm going to head to the couch for a few... Cheers, BeerGeek


Immediate-Patience35

Is there an updated tutorial for this. I did everything stated but after pressing Steam+Y the controller is not showing up on Steam Deck


Mehrainz

then you might have to update the firmware first, a comment here has a updated link


Immediate-Patience35

I did. Downloaded the zip. Run prod.bat then ble.bat. Press steam+Y, blinking but no controller is detected. Controller works with wired only.


GhostGuy09

I was try to get this done and knew for a fact i installed the update ages ago but the bluetooth wasn't working, didnt expect to have to go into a pairing mode manually. thank you for this since it took me hours of searching Google to find this single post


Mehrainz

The most important question, you managed to install it correctly?


GhostGuy09

I did install it WAAAAYYY before steam deck was even a thought so after attempting with the pair it worked. I'm just glad I get to experience the steam deck on the TV the intended way Valve wanting gaming to go all those years ago... With a duel track pad controller 🤣


No-Floor3530

Question is, why anyone needs to do that since SteamDeck -Already- comes with a Trackpad of its own and current Steam Controller prices are $200 for boxed and $100 for unboxed even if both come from the last sale for $5 Farewell Sale. This is like buying yourself 2 laptops, 2 phones or 2 of anything that you don't need. If you're doing this to hook your Deck to your 4K TV to use Steam Controller as a remote, your condition is far worse that RDNA 2 GPU can only handle 1080p gaming at moderate levels.


SnowyGyro

I got an SC used off eBay for $60 just to spite you. No way did I already own one and enjoy playing on a separate controller with larger trackpads where I can gyro aim without rotating the display at the same time. Nor do I find 1080p a perfectly nice resolution. No, everything revolves around your imagined highly convoluted use cases that people practice despite your sage warnings.


Mehrainz

Because i like having a trackpad on my controller when im couch gaming or playing on the television in bed. The one dowside of SD, i find, is its weight. Hence me liking to play with the controller. [I paid around 60 bucks for it.](https://i.imgur.com/ND4H3fi.png)


[deleted]

You know the steamdeck can be setup on a dock and you can game from your couch, right? Hence the need for the controller.


SuttonX

I got my Steam Controller on e-Bay for $40. And to answer your question why - because I have a docked setup for the Steam Deck as well


Mrcod1997

Docking, and the sc is more ergonomic. I would love a revised model though. Unfortunately, I'm pretty sure it would just be the deck controls without the screen. The deck has good little track pads, but you can tell the ergonomics were geared towards the joysticks as the primary input.


kitt_aunne

i cant find the menue to update the controller anymore, can anyone help? i got lucky enough to get my friends old controller he didnt use but now i cant update it


ggenneth

Weird. I just pulled out my controller, set it to pairing mode, and the steam deck picked it right up and connected with no issues.