How to Connect Two PCs With Serial Cable

A direct cable connection between two computers allows a user to exchange large files without having to go through a modem or interfacing device. Serial cables use a D-shaped connection on each end with a certain number of pins, most often 9 or 25. The pins fit into a serial port in a computer, which allows a connection. Follow these steps to connect two computers with a serial cable.

Things You'll Need

• 2 computers with network cards and serial ports
• 1 crossover cable (yellow Category 5 or CAT5 cable)

Instructions

1. Turn both computers off. Connect one end of the cable into the one computer's network card, making certain that pins and holes match.

2. Connect the other end of the cable into the other computer network card port. Turn both computers on.

3. Decide which computer will play host when using Windows XP. Normally the computer with the needed information is the host.

4. Go to Control Panel on the host computer; click on Network Connections. Look in Network Tasks to find "Create new connection." Click "Next." Click "Set up advanced connection" and "Next." Click "Connect directly to another computer" and "Next." Click on "Host."

5. Choose the "serial port" as the connection device to use for the connection. Click "Next." Decide who will have access and check the corresponding boxes. Click "Next," and then "Finish."

6. Move to computer number two, which will be your Guest Computer. The Guest Computer needs information from the Host computer. Type a name for the connection and click "Next."

7. Repeat Step 5 on the guest computer. The setup process is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Create more than one direct connection by copying them in the Network Connections folder. Use different connections for multiple ports or host computers.

• You can also connect two PCs with other communications software with file-transfer capabilities.