How to Troubleshoot Game Controllers

A large number of manufacturers produce game controllers for the PC and most major game consoles. Game controllers for game consoles are generally reliable right out of the box (particularly those developed specifically by the console manufacturer), but for PCs it's a bit more problematic. With so many manufacturers and so many drivers it's not uncommon to need to troubleshoot.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Game controllers
• Drivers
• Instruction manual

1. Change the batteries in your game controller. When you troubleshoot game controllers this is the best first step. Sometimes, as batteries are draining of power they will contribute to sluggish performance or stuttering motion within the game you're playing. Obviously if batteries have died the controller simply won't work.

2. Uninstall and reinstall the drivers for your controller. Sometimes over the course of gameplay, and when changing the settings on your controller, you can actually corrupt your drivers. Just be sure to disconnect your controller from your computer, either by unplugging the USB cable or removing the wireless receiver.

3. Troubleshoot your game controller's connection. Is it plugged in? Is the wireless receiver properly synced with the controller? Refer back to the instruction manual to verify how you must properly connect your controller.

4. Calibrate your controller. Each major game controller ships with a calibration utility that you can use to test functions and buttons. For example, joysticks ship with a calibration tool that allows you to adjust its sensitivity, as well as ensure the joystick translating feedback.

5. Go to DriverFiles.net and download the latest drivers for your game controllers (see Resources below). New drivers and updates are available regularly, and even minor changes can have dramatic impact on compatibility and functionality.

6. Get specific help from the Microsoft website (see Resources below). Microsoft maintains a large database of compatible game controllers and troubleshooting resources.

Tips & Warnings

• Read reviews of game controllers before you buy them. Some game controllers may look attractive but can be riddled with bugs. Some of the best game controllers are those that don't offer the moon but are considered very stable.
• Always use the most up to date drivers for your gaming hardware, whether its your graphics card or your peripherals. Using out of date drivers can create conflicts with your operating system, as well as any game you're playing. This is particularly true of older games.
• Note that some game controllers are not yet compatible with Windows Vista. Always check the packaging of the game controllers you're interested in to ensure Windows Vista compatibility.

Resources

• Game controller support from Microsoft.com.
• Get drivers from Driverfiles.net.