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Computer Help and Support

HopeHoops

(47,675 posts)

11. Hint - use a Sharpie to put an "X" on each end of the crossover cable.

Reply to Tripper11 (Reply #10)

Thu Jul 5, 2012, 01:55 PM

Jul 2012

You can easily tell by holding both connectors together and looking at wire colors, but when you're under a desk with a flashlight it's a lot easier to spot the "X" than the wire colors. I've used that trick for as long as I've been working with Ethernet cables (a long time). It's saved my ass more times than I can count.

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Transferring files from old computer to new [View all] Tripper11 Jul 2012 OP

See if this helps Duer 157099 Jul 2012 #1

If you have an ethernet switch that is able to work with either crossover or straight cables... PoliticAverse Jul 2012 #2

That's usually what I do. Flash drives rock. HopeHoops Jul 2012 #7

The article seems to say this only works on macs. Craig_Langford Jul 2012 #3

No, article has both options Tripper11 Jul 2012 #4

Crossover cables should be clearly marked on the package and... TreasonousBastard Jul 2012 #5

Dollar store cables might "work", but they aren't worth the risk. The cable lengths aren't right. HopeHoops Jul 2012 #8

I've made my own cables, too, but for a buck or two I... TreasonousBastard Jul 2012 #9

A crossover cable has the send/receive lines "crossed over". That's important. HopeHoops Jul 2012 #6

I bought a crossover cable anyway Tripper11 Jul 2012 #10

Hint - use a Sharpie to put an "X" on each end of the crossover cable. HopeHoops Jul 2012 #11

+1000 on that little bit of advice! wandy Jul 2012 #13

here is a link to a crossover adapter, which you put on the end of a regular cat cable CK_John Jul 2012 #12