Having same issue with Xbox 360 wired controller with latest driver update 2.1 on windows 8 Lenovo Y410P
The controller worked fine for a few months and stopped all the sudden, when I plug it into a usb port two lights flash for a second and thats it
things I have tried:
1. uninstall/ re install
2. Go to Device Manager
Right click on the device with the yellow exclamation point on it(assuming device is plugged in) and choose update driver software. If Option is not there, click properties, got to diver tab, then update driver.
Click browse my computer for driver software
Click let me pick from a list..
Scroll down to Microsoft common controller for window class and choose it
Choose version 2.1.0
3. Download the drivers from http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/download/download.aspx?category=gaming
Choose Gaming > Xbox 360 Controller for Windows > Windows 7 64 bit > English. Don’t run the drivers. Save them to a folder. (Or Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows depending on your controller)
Right click the Xbox360_64Eng file in the folder you downloaded to and click 'create shortcut'
Right click the shortcut you created. Select properties.
On the compatibility tab in properties, click 'Run this program in compatibility mode' Choose Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 1 as the compatibility mode. Apply setting and click ok.
Right Click on the shortcut and select 'Run as administrator'
With your controller plugged in go to Device Manager. You should see Microsoft Common Controller for Windows Class. It located under Mice and other pointing if you do, you have arrived.
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The controller does not appear in device manager, devices and printers, or with RUN: joy.cpl
I've scoured the internet and have only found the same suggested fixes (apparently this has been going on for a few years) hopefully someone has a new fix to this problem