A long time ago, trying to connect a controller to a PC was either impossible or required a lot of wires to complete this task. However, new technologies have finally made it easier to connect the controller to the PC using Bluetooth and similar methods.
Syncing your Xbox 360 controller is no exception, and earlier models should be able to easily connect to a laptop or desktop. This is how to connect the Xbox 360 controller to the PC.
Plugin your wireless receiver
This section only applies to controllers with wireless controllers. If you have a wired Xbox 360 controller, go directly to the installed software.
For those with a wireless Xbox 360 controller, connecting to a PC is not as simple as plugging in a device. First, you need to buy a powerful receiver and then run the appropriate setup wizard.
This section only applies to controllers with wireless controllers. If you have a wired Xbox 360 controller, go directly to the installed software.
Install software
To properly synchronize the wireless gaming receiver and the wireless Xbox 360 controller, users must download the required software through the Microsoft website, or a bundle installation disc packed with their receiver.
If not, you can download from the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows link; if wired, select Xbox 360 Controller for Windows instead.
Syncing the controller
If you are using a wired controller, plug it in. You’re good to go. Scroll down to check the controller to make sure everything is working properly.
The pairing process should take a few seconds, after which the light on the receiver will return to solid green and illuminate one of the four corners around the controller’s guide button.
- If you’re still having issues, check Microsoft’s support page for more help.
Testing the controller
Once the required software has been installed and the controller is plugged in or synced, it’s time to test the connection. Open the Start menu on your PC, click the Search menu and find “Game Controllers”. You should see an option that reads: Set up USB game controllers.
