Friend's ps3 won't recognize controller hooked in via USB or wirelessly?

Use a pen to reset the controller using the small button on the back (just above the label)

Then restart the PS3.

Now plug the controller in using the USB cord and then press the PS button on the controller to turn it on.

Hmm it should work when hooked up via USB. Just plug it in, press the button, wait a few seconds, and it should work. Then you can unplug it, wait a few seconds again, and it will work. If not, then I don't know what to tell you

You can always try to use the reset button on the back of the controller....It's in the middle section of the controller on the top right. rather small...Or sometimes it'll fix itself...Mines did the same b4 (when I didnt know of the back reset button) and i tinkered with it and soon enough it worked....Hope u fix your problem....