Many PC games let you play with an Xbox controller instead of a keyboard or mouse. The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows can be quickly and easily installed on any PC that has an available USB port and is running Windows XP Service Pack 2 or later.
Note This information applies only to the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows. For help with other gamepads or joysticks, or for information on configuring a specific game so that you can play it with a controller, refer to the manufacturer’s website or support center.
Set up a wired controller
Step 1: Install the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows software
Note A standard Xbox 360 wired controller can be connected to a Windows PC by way of the USB port, but drivers must be installed before the controller will work.
Use the installation CD that came with your Xbox 360 Controller for Windows before you connect the controller to your computer:
- Insert the installation disc in the CD or DVD drive on your computer. If the setup program doesn’t automatically start, browse to your CD or DVD drive and run the setup program.
- On the setup screen, click Install.
- The Xbox 360 Accessories setup program installs the necessary files to your computer.
Note You might be prompted to restart your computer after the installation is complete.
If you don’t have an installation disc for your Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, you can download and install the software online:
- Go to the Software Downloads section of the Microsoft Hardware website.
- Select Gaming as the product type.
- Select Xbox 360 Controller for Windows as the product.
- Select the version of Microsoft Windows you’re using on your computer, select your operating system language, and then click Download.
- Click Run.
- The Xbox 360 Accessories setup program installs the necessary files to your computer.
Note You might be prompted to restart your computer after the installation is complete.
Step 2: Connect the Xbox 360 wired controller to your computer
After you install the software, plug your Xbox 360 wired controller’s USB connector into a USB 2.0 port on your computer.
Step 3: Test the controller
To test your Xbox 360 wired controller on your computer, follow these steps:
- On your computer, click Start, type Run, type joy.cpl, and then press ENTER.
- Select Xbox 360 Controller, and then click Properties.
- Test your Xbox 360 wired controller by pressing a button, pulling a trigger, or moving a stick on the controller. If the controller is functioning correctly, you’ll see the corresponding action light up in the application. If the application doesn’t recognize your controller, see Troubleshoot your Xbox 360 controller for Windows.
Set up a wireless controller
Note A standard Xbox 360 wireless controller can be connected to a Windows PC, but you must have anXbox 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver to play games, even if you have an Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit.
Step 1: Connect the Xbox 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver to your computer
- Remove the green label from the wireless gaming receiver.
- Insert the gaming receiver’s USB connector into a powered USB 2.0 port on the computer (on the front or back of your computer).
Step 3: Connect the Xbox 360 wireless controller to your computer
- Turn on the Xbox 360 wireless controller by pressing and holding the Guide button, which is the larger circular button located in the middle of the controller near the top.
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- On the receiver, press the connect button which is a circular button located near the middle of the receiver. The light will flash green.
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- Press the connect button on the controller, which is a small circular button located on the top of the controller as you hold it in your hands.
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Green flashing lights on the controller and on the receiver indicate that the device is trying to establish a connection. When the light stops flashing and remains lit, the controller is connected. (On a wireless controller, one of the lights around the Guide button will remain lit.) If you still can’t connect, seeTroubleshoot your Xbox 360 controller for Windows.
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