Restoring Process – Ensure Quality Control
Properly refurbishing a controller requires thorough inspection, cleaning, and testing. We follow this step-by-step checklist to restore controllers to like-new condition with optimal performance and durability.
1. External Inspection – Assess for Damage
- Visual Inspection – Inspect the faceplate, back cover, and buttons for any significant physical damage.
- Button Functionality – Look for worn-out or sticky buttons and analog sticks that may need replacement.
- Port Integrity – Ensure the USB-C port is intact and free of debris.
- Trigger Responsiveness – Test adaptive triggers for responsiveness and signs of malfunction.
2. Internal Cleaning & Maintenance
- Safe Opening – Carefully open the controller using precision tools.
- Dust Removal – Use compressed air and a soft brush to clean out dust from the circuit board and internal components.
- Contact Cleaning – Wipe down button contacts, the D-pad, and the joystick sensors with isopropyl alcohol (90%+ recommended).
- Cable Checks – Ensure all cables are securely connected and free from wear.
3. Replace Worn or Faulty Components
- Analog Stick Replacement – If the analog sticks show drift, replace them with new OEM joysticks.
- Button Repairs – If buttons are unresponsive or sticky, install fresh conductive membranes.
- Trigger Fixes – If the triggers are loose, unresponsive, or broken, replace the internal springs or trigger motor assembly.
- Battery Testing – Test the internal battery capacity and replace it if charging issues are detected.
4. Reassemble & Exterior Restoration
- Reassembly Integrity – Ensure every screw and cable is properly in place.
- Finish Restoration – Use plastic-safe cleaner and microfiber cloths to restore the controller’s finish.
- Shell Replacement – Install a new shell if the original one is excessively scratched or damaged.
5. Performance Testing – Ensure Full Functionality
- Button Verification – Verify every button and the D-pad registers correctly.
- Calibration Check – Use a PC or console calibration tool to ensure smooth movement without drift.
- Vibration & Trigger Testing – Test vibration intensity and adaptive trigger resistance in a compatible game.
- Connection Tests – Connect via Bluetooth & USB-C to confirm stable pairing and charging.
- Audio Functionality – Plug in a headset to check audio output and test the built-in microphone.
6. Final Quality Check & Packaging
- Final Inspection – Ensure the controller is free from smudges, fingerprints, or defects.
- Firmware Update – Connect to a console to check and install the latest firmware.
- Protective Packaging – Wrap in protective material and include necessary accessories if applicable.
By following this comprehensive refurbishing checklist, we can restore controllers to top-tier condition, ensuring optimal performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.