How to Connect a Serial Cable on a Windows 98 Computer to a Windows XP Computer

by Heather Lindsay, Demand Media

Serial cables are used in inter-networking hardware configurations. Applications include network sharing, cluster computing and render shares. These cables are, as of 2011, not as common as their USB and Ethernet counterparts. The connection between two computers using a serial cable, most often a RS232 serial cable, allows for specialized networking tasks that do not require high bandwidth and frees up other network connections. These connections are made with prefabricated serial cables that are keyed to only allow for installation in a specific orientation.

Step 1

Locate the serial ports on the back of each PC. These connections are most often found directly beneath the mouse and keyboard connectors and are aligned vertically.

Step 2

Connect one end of a serial cable to each PC's serial port. These connections are keyed to allow insertion in only one direction.

Step 3

Tighten the connector using the attached screws. This allows for a more secure interface that is less prone to falling loose.

Step 4

Install and execute the networking software that utilizes the serial connection link between the PCs. This software recognizes the connection and updates any device drivers as necessary.

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References

  • Zytrax.com: RS-232 Cables, Wiring and Pinouts

About the Author

Heather Lindsay is a stained glass artist who holds a master's degree in library science, a bachelor's degree in anthropology with a minor in art, and has enjoyed working in special libraries with photograph collections.