Can I programmatically control an xbox 360 console from a PC using a USB cable?

Question

I have an application that may require LabVIEW, some software normally associated with LabVIEW or both...
I would like to be able to programmatically control an Xbox 360, via a PC, and through the use of a USB cable connecting both. I have setup a separate Xbox 360 console as a "dedicated server" for my gaming clan. I would like to be able to have the PC issue scripted commands according to a schedule, that will cause the console to power up, start the specific game (disk in the machine already), and then proceed through a number of Xbox 360 controller button actuations to cause the game to essentially be ready to play.
If possible, I would like to find software that I could install on my PC (currently run with a Windows XP SP2 OS, but I have access to many versions of Windows and also Linux and soon, Solaris Unix).
I have tried using various Infrared devices that connect to and are controlled by my PC, but none so far have allowed the infrared signals to work once the game is launched (apparently, only controller signals generated through a USB cable or through RF from a wireless Xbox 360 remote work once the game is launched - and that probably because the IR signals are meant to control the console as a media device).
I would appreciate any direction that you 'all could offer. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Thanks for your replies everyone, and thanks to NI for this great forum!
The last solution appears to be pretty close to what I'd like to do. If I understand you Robert, I would attach a DAQ to my PC via USB and would control that device via software, then the DAQ connects to a digital output controlled relay (looks multiple wires, and screw-on connections) and then there would be separate wires connecting 'channels' (my term) from the relay to individual button wires inside of the gaming controller? The signals coming from the controller following this would therefore appear as normal.
If this is correct, could you suggest any specific devices for this? I see that NI makes several USB DAQ's includng the USB-6501, 6008, and 6009. I also have seen many digital output controlled relays available from different vendors. I could use some assistance with the finer points for choosing the correct ones to purchase.
In case it makes any difference although the controller has analog functions my requirements are for only the digital buttons only as I would simply be proceeding through the Console's menu (left, right, up, down, enter/select, etc.), launching the game, and then within the game continuing to choose among the game's menu items, ultimately according to a script. So, I don't see any need to be able to actuate either of the 'sticks' which are analog in nature.
Thanks!