I used to be able to charge them through my laptop, and up until about 6 months ago, i get the 4 blinking lights. this is on both of my controllers. i tried different ports and even after i formatted. i also get 4 blinking lights connected to verizon fios box. what gives?

I've never been able to charge my controllers on anything else but my ps3, ive tried. It'd be handy for when im too lazy to walk up to my ps3 and switch controllers.