How to Use an Xbox Controller With a Common Control Driver

Instead of a keyboard and mouse, use a gaming controller to utilize your favorite games.

Video games are available on a variety of platforms. Playing a game, such as Halo, can be more limited when using a keyboard and mouse combination compared with an Xbox controller. Microsoft has released a package called the "Xinput Driver for Microsoft Common Controller" that allows computer gamers to utilize an Xbox controller on the computer driver for a better experience.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Windows XP or more recent
• Common control driver
• Xbox controller

Instructions

1. Check your version of Windows by clicking on the Start menu and then right-clicking on "Computer" and selecting properties. Windows will be listed as either a 32 or 64 bit system.

2. Visit Microsoft's download center and download the Xinput Driver for common controller. Ensure that you are utilizing the correct link for your system.

3. Choose to save the file when prompted and save it to a familiar location.

4. Double-click the file once the download is completed to install the drivers.

5. Plug in the Xbox controller and allow it to detect and sync with the already-installed drivers.

6. Run the game of your choice and go into its "Controller Setup" or "Input Setup." Configure the controls and use the Xbox controller for game play.

Resources

• Microsoft.com: Xinput Driver for Common Controller (32 bit)
• Microsoft.com: Xinput Driver for Common Controller (64 bit)