Problem connecting to the console port on a 2950 1

[JayTheLooser]

Hi!
I've got a catalyst 2950 and I'd like to manage it. I can't connect through telnet because there is no password. So, I need to connect on the console port.
What I have:
-a RJ45 to DB 25 cable
-a RJ45-RJ45 (crossover or straight, but no "roll over&quot and a RJ45-DB9 cable
-Hyperterminal

So, I've tried to connect with the rj45-db25 cable to the console port, but as hyperterminal doesn't have a LPT1 connection port in the options, I've converted into COM1. But nothing happens. It's the same with the other cables...
I don't know what I did wrong.
Could you tell me the procedure in details (coz the cisco procedure just says to connect with a terminal emulation software with 9600bauds...etc)

thank you very much

 

[JayTheLooser]

I forgot to say that I've also tried to connect to the LPT1 port and the COM2 port.
And in every cases mentionned, nothing has ever appeared in my hyperterminal window...
please help me

 

[JayTheLooser]

As I'm still trying to connect to this ****ing switch, I have found a rollover cable, but still no success.
I'd like to know what the led should show on the switch when the console cable is successfully connected? (orange "syst" led, or normal boot?) And what does the "syst" led mean when it is orange?

 

[jpm121]

Jay, you need to be creating a serial connection to the console port -- not through a parallel port like LPT1.

Cisco ships a nice light blue cable with every piece of equipment, and most network guys have about 40 extras sitting around their office collecting dust. Do you know someone you can call to borrow one? That would be the easiest way.

 

[vipergg]

A straight thru cable with a db9 null modem connector will get you into just about any Cisco equipment . Some you will need the null others you won't , this has always been one of my pet peeves , how damn hard is it to create a common interface for all their gear .

 

[Netherbeast]

jpm121 is right.
You also need a program like HyperTerminal in order to connect to the switch. You can find all of this information inside the manual. If you dont have the manual, heres the info you'll need.

9600 baud
8 data bits
1 stop bit
No Parity
None (flow control)

Hope that helps