I ’m a braggy fan of Mad Catz ’s PC Con biz controller — a wired USB secret plan pad that ’s similar in design to Microsoft ’s Xbox Controller S. Now Mad Catz has taken the same excogitation and made it wireless .
Despite its awkward name , the personal computer Con Wireless is compatible with both Macs and PCs . The restrainer connects to the Mac via a rectangular USB sender about the size of a beeper . The controller communicates with the root via 2.4GHz Radio Frequency ( RF ) signals . The vector ’s bulky design bocks neighboring ports if punch forthwith into your Mac ’s USB interface . Mad Catz solves this problem by including an extension USB cable — though this take away a bit from the equipment ’s otherwise attractive intention .
The game tablet runs on three AA batteries . I play for seven or eight hour without running out of succus . However , I care the controller came with a mounting point of view to recharge the batteries . As it is , you ’ll have to reload barrage fire on your own or commend to keep a supply of AAs on hand .
The game launch pad ’s setup is about identical to the personal computer Con and the Xbox Controller S. Gel grips on either side on the controller offer comfortable leverage for the palms of your hand . You ’ll find oneself a directional pad and two programmable buttons on the unexpended side within gentle reach of your thumb . Underneath the correct ovolo is another parallel thumbstick and six more push button .
On the track edge of the biz launch area is an on / off switch . A green light-emitting diode inside the devices work from wink to strong once the game diggings has successfully connected with the base .
That ’s really all there is to it . The game pad does n’t let in driver software program so there ’s nothing to configure . Games either support the pad or they do n’t . For those that do n’t , you could use a third - political party utility such asUSB Overdrive($20 ) to add financial support .
At $ 30 , the personal computer Con is $ 10 more expensive than the wired version . But it ’s a great selection for people who require to keep their desks free of jumble .
The bottom line
Game diggings are n’t for everyone , and do n’t run with every biz . But if you ’re looking for one that closely resembles Microsoft ’s Xbox Controller S and do n’t want the mess of wires , the microcomputer Con Wireless is emphatically worth checking out .
personal computer Con WirelessRATING : PROS : Eliminates wire clutter ; prosperous design ; attractive blueprint . CONS : Batteries tot up weight ; chunky sender stymy ports unless you use an ugly extension cable ; no equipment driver package . PRICE : $ 30 OS COMPATIBILITY : Mac OS X fellowship : Mad Catz
