PS3 won't recognize controller after startup

[jsteinhauer]

I've posted this before within a thread, but I'm hoping greater exposure will help me fix my problem.

This started immediately after the software update that came with the new seizure warning, but it only effects my 120g slim. Not my 80g fat. If I start the PS3 with the PS button on the controller, the console comes on, but does not recognize the controller that was used to turn it on. Re-pressing the PS button on said controller does nothing. Pressing PS on the alternate controller that was not used to turn on the console links that controller as #2. Then I have to use the accessory settings in the main menu to reassign that controller as #1. I have tried resetting the controllers and remating, but that did not fix the problem. This happens whether power save options are turned on or off. If I turn the console on using the power button on the console, I can use either controller once I hit the PS button. But, in the winter, I try to never touch the electronics, because of the static electricity buildup. I have fried an AVR in the past with a static shock and since that time have only used remote controls.

It may not be related, but I have been having occasional system freezes at times when games are not running (such as when deleting save or game files) requiring hard shutoffs.

Any advice?