Dear All, the answer to pretty much anything is on this forum... so here goes.

If I want to charge my x-box 360 wireless controller (with the rechargable microsoft battery pack) can I do so by plugging the play and charge cord into a usb port of my PC or does it only charge when plugged into the 360 Console?

I'd try it - but don't want to break anything.

I only ask as it's easier to charge (if possible) with my almost always on PC as opposed to my sometimes on 360.

Thanks very much.

Buy the rapid charge pack. It comes with an extra battery (always handy) and allows you to charge by plugging into the wall. Our controllers stay much better charged than with the play-and-charge kit which seems to have been a waste of money...

Kosta, two things.

1) The Play-and-Charge will charge your controller even if the 360 is powered off. Try it - plug it in with the system off. If you see an orange light come on, it's charging. When the light goes green, it's done.

2) I *think* that you have to have the proper drivers to charge it via your PC. I've got the Windows Wireless Adapter so that I can use my wireless 360 controller with the PC, so I'd imagine that I have those drivers now, but I haven't tried to use my old P&C to charge it up from here.

But yeah, Greg is right - quick charge is infinitely better.

I've just been using energizer rechargable batteries. Is it worth getting the microsoft battery pack and rapid charge? How long does the charge last, assuming a couple of hours play per day?

I usually go a week or two before swapping out battery packs (one is always charging, the other always in the controller). Sooner if I'm playing more frequently (as I was doing the last couple weeks with Crackdown).

Dola, let me rephrase. On the sooner end (i.e. one week) if I'm playing a lot, more like two weeks under ordinary circumstances.

You can charge with your PC USB. I do mine all the time on the PC.

Thanks for all the info guys.

You can charge with your PC USB. I do mine all the time on the PC.
Yup. I'd also echo the thoughts that the wall chargers are much better. Less time.

I may have to look into getting a rapid charger.