This is an example of how i managed to use the Jinput-library to get input-signals from an Xbox360-Controller. I wanted to get just a single impulse, if i trigger a button/stick, what is working for me so far. It may not be the best solution, but i wanted to share it, if somebody else has problems getting started with Jinput.
I was only able to test this under Windows 10 with an Xbox360-Controller (wired). It should be working under Linux and MacOS too, but i can't say anything about the compatibility with other controllers.
Note: There are probably some issues, if both analog-sticks are used at the same time.
You need to import Jinput to your project. I've used Jinput 2.0.6 but you can also use the latest build, if you need something like the Windows 8/10-warning gone.
The next thing you need are the native libraries of Jinput. You get these here:
Create a folder in your project for the native libraries and unpack the .JAR-File(s) in this folder.
Make sure to add -Djava.library.path=pathname in your projects VM Options.