How to use Xbox 360 controller on Windows PC

Gaming on your Windows PC is not only limited to playing with a mouse and keyboard, now it is possible to use Xbox 360 controller with your windows PC too and enjoy its features without owning the Xbox console.

How to set up a Wired Xbox 360 controller on Windows PC

Step 1
Install  Xbox 360 controller software:

The very first thing to do is install the software from the CD which came with Xbox 360 controller for Windows before the actual controller can be connected. To run the program from the CD, click Install from the setup screen. Wait till the installations is complete and restart your computer.

In case you do not have a installation disc for your Xbox 360 controller, you need to download the software online. Follow these steps to download installation software online

• From the Microsoft Hardware website, go to Software Downloads section.
• In product type select Gaming
• Select Xbox 360 Controller for Windows
• Now select the version of Microsoft Windows, operating system language and click Download
• After the completion of download process click Run, the program will install the necessary files. Restart your computer after installation completes

Step 2
Connect the controller:

• Plug the Xbox 360 wired controller's USB connector in the USB 2.0 port of your Windows PC.

Step 3
Test:

Follow these steps to test the connected Xbox 360 wired controller on your Windows PC:

• Go to Start > Run > joy.cpl
• Press Enter
• Select Xbox 360 Controller > Properties
• Now use the controller to test it, If it is correctly connected you will see the corresponding area highlighted, else Troubleshoot Xbox 360 controller for Windows

How to set up a wireless Xbox 360 controller on Windows PC

Step 1
Connect the Xbox 360 wireless gaming receiver:

• Remove the green label from the USB connector
• Insert it into USB 2.0 port on your Windows PC

If you see a green light on the receiver, it is connected, else try another port. When Add New Hardware Wizard starts select Install the software automatically (Recommended) and click Next. Click Finish when the wizard installs the software successfully. Now directly go to Step 3. If if does not then follow Step 2.

Step 2
Install the software:

Now install the software from the CD which came with Xbox 360 controller for Windows before the actual controller can be connected. To run the program from the CD, click Install from the setup screen. Wait till the installations is complete and restart your computer.

In case you do not have a installation disc for your Xbox 360 controller, you need to download the software online. Follow these steps to download installation software online

• From the Microsoft Hardware website, go to Software Downloads section.
• In product type select Gaming
• Select Xbox 360 Controller for Windows
• Now select the version of Microsoft Windows, operating system language and click Download
• After the completion of download process click Run, the program will install the necessary files. Restart your computer after installation completes

Step 3
Connect the Xbox 360 wireless controller to your Windows PC:

• Turn on your Xbox 360 controller by pressing the Guide button which has the Xbox logo on it
• Press the Connect button on the receiver to see a flashing green light
• Now press the Connect button located at the back of your Xbox 360 controller
• Wait for the green light to stop flashing, on both the devises, it will mean that a connection is established between them.
• Troubleshoot your Xbox 360 controller for Windows if the controller is unable to connect.