ethernet would acknowledge cable

[bill]

I'm trying to connect two XP Pro units (desktop and
laptop) with 10/100 ethernet connections but it keeps
telling me I have no cable connected even though I've
tried two different rf-45 "Radio Shack' cables.

Both ethernet hardware "3com" check out as ok.

What am I doing wrong?

Thanks for all your responses.

Bill

 

[Sam]

If you are connecting the two pc's directly (without a
networking hun or switch in between) make sure you're
using a crossover cable and not a streight-through cable.
(I don't know US color standards for cables).
If you are sure you are using a streight through cable
make sure the network connections are not disabled!