Serial Networking: Cable Information

CONTENTS
	Introduction Page
	Contact Details
	Useful Website Links
	Website Update Log

General:

	Serial Cable Networking: Pros and Cons
	Hardware & Software Requirements
	Serial Cable Information
	Network Security Issues

RISC OS TCP/IP Configuration:

	Configuring !Internet v4
	Configuring !Internet v5

Connection Instructions:

	Connecting to another RISC OS Computer
	Connecting to a Linux Computer
	Connecting to a Windows 9x Computer
	Connecting to a Windows 2000/XP Computer

Alternative Uses of The Link:

	Using a Linux PC As An Internet Router
	VNC
	Using your RISC OS Computer as a Time Server


Return to top of page.

For the serial link you will need a null modem cable, which should be obtainable from most computer suppliers. However, some cables are not wired to the full null modem cable specification, and this may cause problems. The diagram below illustrates the two different null modem cables that I've come across:

The incorrectly wired null modem cable is labelled as the 'Acorn-PC Serial Comms. Cable', and is missing wiring between pins 1 and 6. I found that with this cable I was unable to setup a connection.

The diagram labelled 'Acorn - PC Null Modem Cable' is the fully wired null modem cable, which allowed a successful linkup.

Note that if you are using a RISC OS computer manufactured before the A5000/A4 then this cable will not work due to an incorrectly implemented serial port. Information regarding the correct cable wiring for these computers can be found in the RISC OS FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions). This document can be found via the following website, http://www.faqs.org/faqs/acorn/.

Serial Cable Circuit Diagram

For a full size copy of the diagram, download one of the following:

Full size GIF copy.
Original Draw format copy, zipped.

Return to top of page.