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Skyhawk
Asked: 2012-04-02 19:45:43 +0800 CST

Is it possible to cross-connect two AUI ports without transceivers?

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Many Ethernet devices predating the ubiquity of RJ45 transceivers had DB15 "AUI" ports. One is ordinarily expected to attach a transceiver for either coaxial or twisted-pair Ethernet.

Is it possible to cross-connect two AUI ports using an appropriately short cable that crosses the data send/receive pins, without using transceivers?

ethernet

3 Answers

  1. Best Answer

    Yes, it can be done.

    Connect pin 3 (TxD-A) on each end to pin 5 (RxD-A) on the other. Connect pin 10 (TxD-B) on each end to pin 12 (RxD-B) on the other. On each end, connect pin 6 (Vc) to pin 9 (Collision Detect / Control In B). Connect the two ground shields together.

    Note that while this usually works, it does technically violate the specifications, so it's an "at your own risk" kind of thing. Note also that this is not safe if both devices are not connected to the same grounding point.

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  2. Pick up a used DELNI. DELNI And learn some new swear words for when you're latching and unlatching the &%$# !@!@! (*&^% sliders on the AUI cables.

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  3. It may be easier/safer to use media converters that plug into the AUI on the device and provide an RJ45 connection on the other end.

    enter image description here

    They seem to be readily available still too.

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