Xbox 360 Controller

The Xbox 360 is the next in the systems lineup from Microsoft, following their Xbox video game console. It was designed in a joint effort between IBM, Samsung, SiS and ATI.

The Xbox 360 is considered to be the first console to have a simultaneous launch across the three major regions (even though quantities were severely limited until well after the holiday season. And the Xbox 360 is considered the first console to provide wireless controllers as standard issue. It competes in a category of new generation of game consoles: Nintendo's Wii and Sony's PlayStation 3.

You can have up to four controllers hooked up with the Xbox 360, including any and all wireless and wired gamepads. Hook the wired Xbox 360 controller up via either of the two front or one rear USB ports on the console.

Gamepads, also referred to as control pads or joypads, are game controllers that you hold with both hands, thumbs entering the input. Action buttons that are generally featured on the gamepads are controlled with the right thumb. The direction controller historically has been either an older-style four-way digital patterned cross or D-pad, or the more modern analog stick that was brought out with the Emerson Arcadia 2001 but slow to gain market volume until the Sony PlayStation, Sega Saturn and Nintendo 64 systems grew in numbers, is activated with the left thumb. Gamepads may also have buttons along the edge called shoulder buttons. They also may come with start, mode and select buttons in a central location. And they may contain an internal motor for force feedback.

With the Xbox 360 controller, former Xbox black and white buttons are replaced with right and left bumpers. You'll find an Xbox Guide button in the center.

You can tell when a gamepad is on because the quadrant of the LED "Ring of Light" circling the power button lights up. Then the first player coordinates with the upper-left quadrant, and the rest or the players continue clockwise.

Note a "Ring of Light" will also surround the Xbox Guide button. It warns you of a low battery on wireless gamepads.

The wired Xbox 360 controller comes with a nine foot cord that can be plugged in to nearly any PC with Windows or USB. And the wireless gamepads, carrying about a 30-feet area span of range, require either a NiMH rechargeable battery pack or two AA batteries.

Note you can opt to use a USB keyboard with your Xbox 360 if you like. However note that it's only good for navigating the dashboard and inputting text.

Provided by Cheap Xbox 360