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Direct Cable Connection

 
Topics:

· Install DCC
· Configure GUEST
· Configure HOST

Microsoft® offers a great way to easily connect two computers for one way file transfers. The software is provided free as part of the Windows® 9x operating systems, however it may not be installed on your computer by default. This tutorial will describe how to install the DCC software and connect two computers using a crossover parallel cable often referred to as a Laplink cable.

First, some notes on configuration. Make sure NetBEUI and File Sharing are installed and configured on both computers. The parallel ports on both computers should be set to the same mode (SPP, EPP or ECP). You can change the port mode from the BIOS setup program at boot time.

NOTE: To avoid potentially damaging the parallel ports, attach the parallel cable only if the computers are powered down.

Perform STEP 1 on both the HOST and GUEST computers.

The HOST COMPUTER is the machine that will be receiving the connection and sharing its files.

The GUEST COMPUTER will be connecting to and receiving files from the HOST.

STEP 1 - Install Direct Cable Connection (HOST & GUEST)

  1. Open My Computer
  2. Control Panel
  3. Add/Remove Programs
  4. Select Windows Setup tab
  5. Select Communications
  6. Click Details button
  7. Checkmark - Direct Cable Connection
  8. Click OK
  9. You will likely be prompted to insert your installation CD to complete the setup.
figure 1 Fig.1
You can establish a Direct Cable Connection between two computers using a parallel cable with two DB-25 male connectors Parallel Cable
 
or a serial cable with two female DB-9 female connectors. Serial Cable

STEP 2 - Configuring the GUEST computer

  1. Attach a parallel crossover cable. Restart the computers.
  2. START
  3. select Programs
  4. Accessories,
  5. Direct Cable Connection. (figure 2)
  6. Click Connect
  7. go to STEP 3
figure 2 Fig.2
  1. Click Change button to change settings.
  2. Next, you will be presented with a window (Fig.3) that will allow you to designate the current computer as either the HOST or the GUEST by clicking the appropriate radio button.
  3. Since we want this computer to get files from the other, select the second radio button to designate this computer as the Guest.
  4. Click Next >
figure 3 Fig. 3
  1. You are now presented with a window (Fig.4) that allows you to select the cable type for the connection. In this example a parallel cable is being used therefore, highlight Parallel cable on LPT1
  2. Click Next >
  3. Click Finish
figure 4 Fig. 4
    If all goes well a new window (Fig.5) will appear displaying the status of the connection.
figure 5 Fig. 5
 
 

STEP 3 - Configuring the HOST computer

With respect to cable type, port type and protocol, the HOST is configured in the same manner as the GUEST computer. However, the Host computer must have:

  1. A hard drive share defined as accessible by other computers.
  2. The HOST radio button selected in the appropriate window (Fig.3).
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