Before starting

• Identify your console: original Xbox 360 or Xbox 360 S.
• If you have the original model, prepare the Kinect USB/power cable.
• Choose a stable surface above or below the television.
• Clear the area between the sensor and players.

Connect Kinect to an Xbox 360 S

On an Xbox 360 S, connect the Kinect sensor directly to the console’s AUX port. The console supplies power.

Connect Kinect to an original Xbox 360

On the original Xbox 360, use the Kinect USB/power cable. Connect its USB plug to the rear USB port, then plug the mains adapter into a wall socket.

If a wireless network adapter already occupies the rear USB port, move it to a front USB port using the supplied Wi-Fi extension cable. Then connect Kinect to the rear USB port.

Update the original Xbox 360

Microsoft’s documentation says that the original Xbox 360 needs a system update before using Kinect. The disc supplied with the sensor may start installation automatically.

Position the sensor

Place Kinect on a safe, stable surface, usually above or below the television. Maintain a clear line of sight between the sensor and the play area.

Prepare the play area

Before each use, clear the space between the players and sensor and the area in which players will move. Furniture, objects and other obstacles must not obstruct this space.

Allow the recommended distance

Microsoft recommends approximately 1.8 m between one player and the sensor, or approximately 2.5 m for two players. The space needed can vary with sensor placement and the game. These distances are recommendations, not a universal guarantee that Kinect will work.

Check the documented setup

• For an Xbox 360 S, the sensor is connected to the console’s AUX port.
• For an original Xbox 360, the USB/power cable is connected to the rear USB port and the mains adapter to a wall socket.
• The sensor is on a stable surface above or below the television, with a clear line of sight.
• The play area and the space between the sensor and players are free of obstacles.
• The recommended distance is approximately 1.8 m for one player or 2.5 m for two, depending on the setup.

This checklist covers the connections and room preparation documented by Microsoft. The supplied sources do not establish a universal software test or confirmation of operation for every game and room. If you have an Xbox 360 E, stop here: this guide does not cover its specific connections.

Key points

• Xbox 360 S: direct connection to the AUX port, with power supplied by the console.
• Original Xbox 360: Kinect USB/power cable, rear USB port and mains adapter connected to a wall socket.
• Original Xbox 360: a system update is required before using Kinect.
• For both documented models: a stable sensor, clear line of sight and unobstructed movement area.