2504 Router Token Ring issue

[dubzadmin]

Hi Guys, I have recently acquired a 2504 router for a lab to aid in my CCNA. The router has one token ring port. I need to access the router via this interface so I can tftp an image to it. How do I do this? I have a DB9 to RJ45 adapter, but any attempt to use a crossover or straigh thru type able from the adapter to another NIC on the network is not working, any ideas?

Thanks

Dean

[thisisshanky]

You cannot use a DB9-to RJ45 converter to communicate to a PC of yours that has a Ethernet NIC. Because Token ring and Ethernet are two separate protocols and they dont understand each other. You will need a token ring NIC and possibily a MAU which helps you communicate to the box.

[dubzadmin]

Is there any way I can do this without a MAU? ie straight from PC to router?

[thisisshanky]

I am not sure if another way exists. Unless you want to spend this much money to get a converter like this.

http://www.ringdale.com/products/st/asp/control.showsubcat/subcatid.108/en/default.htm

[scottmac]

No.

You cannot directly connect two Token-Ring nodes via crossover cable (well, you can connect 'em, but they won't work).

You must have a MAU-looking device to handle the on-ring/off-ring stuff and the initialization protocol.

Once upon a time Nortel (and maybe IBM) used a direct cross-over interconnect for their TR switches, but it was essentially proprietary.

You should be able to find MAUs for next to nothing, cost-wise. Save yourself the frustration .... get a MAU of TR switch.

Good Luck

Scott