my PS3 controller has suddenly decided to be difficult. it no longer starts the console when you press the PS button and the only way to make it work is to plug it into the PS3 via the USB cable. even when it's plugged in with the console, the controller takes several seconds to register, e.g. lights flash for at least 5 seconds. and when trying to wirelessly connect it with my PS3, it doesn't register and link up but instead flashes with the red lights on top for at least 5 seconds, then those lights go out and nothing happens.

please help, it's so annoying and it's only recently started, i.e. within the past 2 hours. and it means i have to sit 2 foot closer to the tv.
it is fully charged by the way