Microsoft KB Archive/814982

= How to Configure a Direct Cable Connection with Windows XP Home Edition (PART 2) =

Article ID: 814982

Article Last Modified on 11/5/2003

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APPLIES TO


 * Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition

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SUMMARY
This article includes Part 2 of the &quot;Configure a Direct Cable Connection with Windows XP Home Edition&quot; guide. Part 2 describes how to connect the cables.

Note To view the other topics of the &quot;Configure a Direct Cable Connection with Windows XP Home Edition&quot; guide, see the Microsoft Knowledge Base articles that are listed in the &quot;References&quot; section of this article.

The &quot;Configure a Direct Cable Connection with Windows XP Home Edition&quot; guide includes the following topics:

Part 1. Introduction: Configure a Direct Cable Connection with Windows XP Home Edition

Part 2. Connecting the Cables

Part 3. Setting the Computer Names and Workgroups

Part 4. Sharing Resources

Part 5. Configuring the Direct Cable Connection

Part 6. Configuring TCP/IP

Part 7. Using NWLink IPX/SPX/NetBIOS-Compatible Transport Protocol

Part 8. Connecting the Computers



Part 2. Connecting the Cables
For two computers to exchange data, they must be physically connected. To connect them, you can use the following configurations:  A serial null modem cable for the COM port



 A parallel interlink cable for the LPT port



 A USB link cable for the USB interface



 CAT5 UTP or STP cable (category 5 unshielded or shielded twisted pair cables with RJ45 connectors on both ends)



 If you do not have cables, you can use an infrared connection if both computers have the required hardware.





Cables are special equipment. You can obtain them from specialized dealers under a variety of names. Null modem cables and interlink cables cross over the reception and transmission lines. USB link cables are straight-through cables that are equipped with conversion electronics.

A cable that is used for a direct cable connection has the same connector at both ends. This feature distinguishes it from other cables. For example, a null modem cable has socket connectors at both ends, and a typical serial cable that you use for connecting an external modem has a socket connector at the computer end and a pin connector at the modem end.

Obtain a suitable cable and connect your computers with it. You do not have to obtain any other hardware.

