For those of us out here with machines that include Ethernet, what all do we need to get hooked up to an ethernet network? For instance, using localtalk and a printer cable, two Macs can simply connect together via printer ports and exchange data. With ethernet (let's assume you've got 2 PCI-powermacs), can you do the same with a simple 10bT RJ-xxx cable? Say you want to add a 3rd user, what extra stuff would you need? Just something like etherwave, or would you need a router?
Macs are really neat in the fact that they talk to each other with minimal hardware. I have long used Appletalk to simply connect computers and printers together, as you have. Unfortunately it is too slow nowadays. All you need is the Appletalk connectors for each machine and printer and a bit of phoneline. You simply turn on sharing and use the chooser to navigate and print. Ethernet can be as simple (should be anyway but I am having a bit of trouble). All you need is a cable to hook two machines together. Use networking to switch from your regular ports to ethernet. If you have a printer hooked to one of machines you can use localtalk bridge software (that came on our install CD but nobody ever looked at) to enable both machines to use the same printer.
The problem I am having is simple, both cards say the cable is bad. I have checked the cable with a volt ohm meter and all the connections appear to be good. I plan to take the cable to work and check it there. You can buy the 10 base T cable you need for about $10-$15 depending on the length you need from any mail order house premade. I don't suggest you make up your own cable, but you can easily enough since the fittings and wire are readily available. All it takes though is one bad connect to put you out of business.
If you want to hook up more than two machines then you will need a simple hub. Etherwave is a good idea but too pricey for me. You can get a 5 port hub for less than $90.
If you want to use 10 base 2 then you will need to make sure that both ends of your hookup have 50 ohm terminators. It uses inexpensive but bulkier coax. Most new Macs come with the 10 base T built in, but some require a pigtail (adapter).
If you have a few more bucks to spend the 10/100 cards are available and will allow a substantial speed increase. The nubus cards are steep at close to $400 but the PCI jobbies are more affordable. Hub prices are substantially higher on the 10/100 varieties as well.
They say that Net Doubler will increase your throughput. We have been discussing adding it here at work and may test it in the near future.
