RJ-45 to USB Adapter for console connection?

[GeckoPunk]

Hello,

I would like to configure a Cisco 3600 Router with my laptop, however, I do not have the RJ-45 to DB-15 cable, nor do I have the DB-15 serial port on my laptop. I also do not have the required DB-15 to USB adapter that would be needed to assist me in connecting my computer to the router.

Just curious (so I won't have to buy the cable and the adapter), is there an RJ-45 to USB cable that would allow me to connect directly from Cisco's 3600 Router console port directly to my laptop?

Thank you,

[Joe Clarke · Accepted solution]

I haven't seen one myself.  What I carry in my backpack is a Belkin USB to DB-9 adapter (http://www.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=129218) along with a rolled RJ-45 cable I made (just roll the pins so that the order from one end to the other is exactly opposite).  To complete the set, I have an RJ-45 to DB-9 adapter (http://www.pccables.com/01910.htm).  Yeah, it would be easier to have the RJ-45/DB-9 console cable, but sometimes you need to improvise.

[GeckoPunk]

Thanks for the quick reply...

Here's another "Just curious" question for you... I found an RJ-45 to USB adapter (of some sorts) http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=216603039&listingid=94934371 . Do you think I could connect to the console port of the router using a rollover cable connected via that device?

Thanks again,

[Joe Clarke]

No, this will not work.  This is a USB ethernet adapter, not a serial adapter.

[jesreard · Accepted solution]

In the labs here at Cisco, and at the Cisco Networking Academy I work for, we use the light blue Cisco flat console cable (Male RJ-45 connection and a Female DB-9 Serial connection), and then a USB adapter to hook to our computers.

The blue cables are very cheap online, as every lab that orders Cisco equipment has ZILLIONS of them.  The adapters are pretty inexpensive as well; just note not all are plug-and-play; some need specific drivers (usually easily found online).

Recomended Google/E-bay/Amazon search criteria:  "Cisco Console Cable" and "Female DB-9 Serial to USB"