Oh no.. sorry I didnt look at this sooner.. I tried to do what you wanted to do several months back.
But using a PS3 controller. I got it to work.. but it takes a lot of downloading and installing, and mapping.. and in some cases having to press F7 on start up to change internal settings to accept 3rd party devices.
It was hard work.. install a driver to pretend its a microsoft product, install a mapper.. and select what button does what on the controller.. once its activated it thinks the controller is a mouse so you have to use the controller to navigate on your pc. In the end i was fed up of going through a lot of set up just before i wanted to play something.
it was easier and indeed safter to get a microsoft/Xbox controller in the long run.
I googled and youtubed all i needed..
like this..
basically download a "DS3" program, to make your comp think your using a microsoft pad..
and a "better DS3" to map your controller buttons.
in the long run I think you did the right thing in the end
btw im not a technical guy, so i could have ruined my comp :p