With the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows software, you can set up the Xbox 360 Controller (wired or wireless) to work with a computer that is running Windows. If you have a wireless controller, then you'll need to purchase a Xbox 360 Wireless Reciever for Windows from your favourite retailer.

Download the Xbox 360 Controller software for Windows XP

If you are running Windows XP and want to use the controller from your Xbox 360 console on a computer (or if you have lost the installation CD that came with the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows), you must download the software for the controller. You can download the software here.

Install the Xbox 360 Controller software on a Windows XP computer

Note You must install the software on the XP computer before you attach the Controller. (Note if you are running Windows Vista or Windows 7, a driver is already pre-installed, so skip to the connect step below.)

To install the software, follow these steps:

1. Open the software that you downloaded from the Microsoft Windows gaming Web site or insert the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows installation disc in the CD or DVD drive of the computer. If the Setup screen does not appear automatically, follow these steps:
   • Click Start, click Run, type the following command, and then click OK:
     drive_letter:setup
     For example, if the CD or DVD drive is drive E, type e:setup, and then click OK.
2. On the Setup screen, click Install.
3. Follow the Setup Wizard instructions to complete the installation.

Note You may be prompted to restart the computer.

Connect the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows to a computer

After you install the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows software, connect the controller to a powered USB 2.0 port on the computer.

To verify that the computer correctly identifies the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, see the Game Controllers item in Control Panel.

Syncing a Wireless Controller

If you are using a wireless reciever and controller, and it doesn't appear to function correctly, you may need to re-sync the controller to the wireless reciever.

To re-sync

• Press the small button on the front of the Xbox Controller and one on top of the actual USB receiver at the same time

This will form a "relationship" or "pairing" between the controller and reciever. You will need to carry out the re-syncing process each time your switch between using the controller on the Xbox 360 or the PC.

To disconnect the Xbox 360 Controller, disconnect the USB connector from the computer. Make sure that you pull the USB connector, not the cable.


Find out more about the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller and its features.