I’ve had a 1st generation slim PS2 for a few years and I use a Sony PS1-based stick more than a PS2 controller, but all of the following concerns the usage of a standard PS2 pad. For the past year or two there has been a problem (possibly a voltage issue?) where the analog light would flicker when the rumble motors vibrate, and the console would sporadically think the controller was unplugged. After some minor realignment of the pins in the controller’s plug, the problem wasn’t as bad as before.
Unfortunately, during a game the analog light turned off, there’s no vibration and the analog sticks don’t work at all. All the other buttons work fine. I figure this has something to do with the constant use of a PCB which had the rumble motors cut off (though the analog light and main component of the analog sticks are still there inside the stick and presumably functional). I also know that the issue is with the 1P port, because a brand new PS2 controller has the same results. The analog light is lit for both controllers when plugged into the 2P port.
What exactly can be done about this? For someone with basic soldering experience, would it be difficult to open the console and swap the ports? Is there something simpler I can do instead? Thanks.
Advice: If you’re going to practice fighting games on console with a custom stick, use the 2P port!