Xbox controller not 'usable' on my PC.

Monkey Man 27140 · Sep 18, 2023

I specifically say 'usable' here. It does connect. It is recognized on a deep level. It's just not usable.

Was in the middle of a game, connected wirelessly via the Xbox wireless adapter, controller stopped sending inputs. The Xbox light was still solid, indicating it still had a connection. But was not functioning.
Since then have troubleshot many things and only gotten more confused.

Troubleshooting has revealed:

-My drivers for the controller and USB ports are all up to date.

-The controller connects and functions properly via Bluetooth to the PC. (though for me I don't sit right next to the PC while gaming and that's about as far as the signal reaches so isn't a workaround)

-When pairing with the wireless adapter, the controller quickly goes to a solid light indicating a good connection. Only under 'device management deeper in settings do I see "Xbox peripheral". Under the more surface level "Bluetooth & devices" it is not listed. It's also not recognized by the Xbox Accessories app. It also does not function.

-Plugging the controller in via USB the light never goes solid. It shows under device management as 'Xbox peripherial'. Under "Bluetooth & devices" it shows up as 'Controller' (NOT 'Xbox Wireless Controller'). Not recognized by the Xbox Accessories app. Does not function.

-Two other Xbox controllers I have connected and functioned immediately via every method.

Which led me to think this controller had some sort of internal damage, physical or otherwise, but the real kicker:

The controller connects to an Xbox wirelessly and wired with no issue.

Is there a way to 'hard reset' a controller? I have removed the batteries and checked it's up to date via the Xbox.

:)

SwordofWhedon

You can find the same model of controller and swap the guts out and keep the customization

Monkey Man 27140

Good thought, but this doesn't address the controller not appearing under 'Bluetooth & devices'.

One more detail, when I connect the controller wirelessly to the pc via the Xbox Wireless Adapter. Press the sync button, light blinks rapidly. On PC click 'add xbox controller via wireless adapter. The controller light immediately goes solid, but the PC never indicates it found a device, it just keeps searching indefinitely.

Nkosana23

If other controllers are able to connect without any issues, then there are chances the issue might be with the controller. If that is the case, you can try get it repaired and see if they're able to pick up and fix the cause. You can also try trade it in with anyone else that wouldn't want to use it for PC. I am sorry this is all the help I can assist you with as none of the given solutions help your case.

Nkosana23

You can also try get your device serviced instead.

If you've registered your device, sign in at Device services to see the device's warranty status. If it's within warranty, repairs are free. If your device is out of warranty, you'll be charged a repair fee.

If you have not registered you device, follow the steps here: https://support.xbox.com/help/hardware-network/warranty-service/register-your-product

After you have registered you device, follow these steps:
1. Sign in to the Device services site with your Microsoft account credentials: https://account.microsoft.com/devices/select-device-for-repair

2. Select the device that you want repaired.

3. Follow the onscreen steps to complete your service order request.

After Device services receives your submission, they'll send you a service order number and an order confirmation email that includes shipping or drop-off instructions.

You can find more details on getting your Xbox device serviced on this link: https://support.xbox.com/help/hardware-network/warranty-service/getting-your-product-serviced

Monkey Man 27140

Thank you for your time!
Yeah, this seems like a particularly peculiar issue. Unfortunately, the controller is pink and white with my wife's name engraved on it so may have trouble trading haha

Xbox controller not 'usable' on my PC.