How To Connect Xbox 360 Controller To PC Without Receiver?
It goes without saying that if you have a wired Xbox 360 controller, all you need to do is plug it into your PC. However, if you have a wireless controller, then that’s where things become difficult. Then you need to ask- how to connect Xbox 360 controller to pc without receiver? Thankfully I am here to help you out. So let us begin!
What Do You Need To Connect Your Xbox 360 Controller To The PC Without A Receiver?
First of all, know that many people will recommend you to connect using your bluetooth. But this can’t be done since the officially released Xbox made for PC refuses a Bluetooth connection. This is because a wireless controller makes use of frequencies that differ from those used by Bluetooth. However, there is a way you can connect your controller without any receiver.
For this, you need to use an adapter. Know that without using an adapter, it’s almost impossible to connect your Xbox 360 controller to the PC. So this means that first, you need to purchase an adapter. But with so many adapters available in the market, you might wonder which one you should get. As such, note that it depends on your budget. If you want the high-end one that will securely connect your controller to your PC, then opt for the one sold by Microsoft.
However, if you are looking for something within budget, then go for the duplicate or backdoor ones. So let us first tackle the installation of the official adapter, and then we will move on to the duplicate ones.
How Can You Successfully Connect Your Xbox 360 Controller To The PC Without A Receiver?
Now that you have the adapter, it’s time to install it. If you want to install the official Microsoft one, then the steps are easy. But note that these steps will work only on Windows 8. So here’s what you need to do:
- You will first have to plug the adapter into your PC.
- Now, please wait for it to get detected by your computer and the needed devices.
- After it has been recognized, you need to access it by going to Device Manager. There click on the Start button. Know that clicking on the Windows logo will also work.
- Now head to that Search Bar. You need to type in “device manager” and then find the Xbox adapter that has been downloaded.
Now, if you are using windows 7, then:
- You will get a prompt with “Add Hardwares.” It will tell you to add the USB adapter. Once you have done that, you need to click on the “Install Softwares Automatically” option. After this, the process should get done automatically.
- However, if you don’t have the needed drivers, then you might face issues. But there is a solution to this, and that’s downloading the correct drivers.
- Once installation is done, you need to head to the “Pairing Controllers To PC” option. That’s it.
Your Xbox 360 controller should be working on your PC now. If you are using another Windows OS, like 10, then the installation process won’t be much different.
How Can You Install A Not-Official Adapter?
If you have bought a lower quality but perfectly working adapter, it’s indeed possible to install it. The installation process is as follows:
- First, plug in your adapter in any of your PC’s backports. Now, if you have with you a USB hub, then you need to power it. Also, here’s a tip: make sure that you choose a port that you don’t use for anything else. This is because if you unplug it, then you will have to install it all again.
- Then go to Device Manager and select your Windows logo. After this, write Windows Device-Manager in the search bar.
- You should ideally find your adapter under the Other Devices section. After that, click on Unknown Devices.
If you follow these steps mentioned above, you will quickly install a wireless adapter and then connect your controller to your PC. We would advise you to buy the legal wireless adapter since it will last longer and it’s much easier to install it. Know that if you feel like this process is a hassle, then there’s a simple way out of buying a wired adapter.
About the Author Michael E. Yates
Hi! The words you are going to read comes from me! A geek passionately and a writer of 5+ years professionally. If you ask about my likings, well, I love to tag along with upcoming technology trends. Though I also have contributed to many more technology sites through my writings. If you ask about my dreams, then one of them is finding an instant solution for every device malfunction, so I am creating a blog post. A blog post that will help more people like me. I, introduce thepcstuff.com the result of my hard work and patience. Do not worry, with me and my team behind the computers will make sure every vital information related to technology reaches all of you people. So, if you are ready to go on an adventurous ride with thepcstuff.com and me, let's get started!
