networking problems

Hi All.

We used to run 2 win 98 pc (one as a hub) and 1 xp on a
small realtek network. We now have a new xp, so i wnt to
connect 1 xp pc to the other. But after we put in the
cables, it say that we are dissconnected. We have run the
wizzards but they (on both pc's) say the cable is not
connected.

I reconnected my xp, to the old 98, and it worked fine.

Is there a Step by step guide for networking 2 xp pcs
together, or can u help?

Thanks.

Andy.

"Andy G" <leppmix@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:087701c34482$a2cda810$a501280a@phx.gbl...
> Hi All.
>
> We used to run 2 win 98 pc (one as a hub) and 1 xp on a
> small realtek network. We now have a new xp, so i wnt to
> connect 1 xp pc to the other. But after we put in the
> cables, it say that we are dissconnected. We have run the
> wizzards but they (on both pc's) say the cable is not
> connected.
>
> I reconnected my xp, to the old 98, and it worked fine.
>
> Is there a Step by step guide for networking 2 xp pcs
> together, or can u help?
>
> Thanks.
>
> Andy.

Are you trying to hook the two computers directly together?

If so are you using a cross-over cable? If not, this could be your problem.
NIC's transmit on certain pins and receive on other pins. If you hook two NIC's
together with a standard cable, then both cards will be transmitting on the same
pins and receiving on the same pins. Data will get nowhere. Normally
hubs/switches will handle the cross-over function for you so all you need is a
standard straight-through cable. The fact that it reports the network cable is
disconnected indicates it is not seeing a carrier on the cable.

Paul