Mini LAN party

[Despotes]

I'm currently (re) building a second computer and would like to know how to set up my two systems so I can play Q3, UT... with a friend in the same room. I know I need 2 LAN cards(right?).
What brand is best and how do you set up the hardware/software between the 2 computers. I probably could figure it out when I complete my 2nd system, but I don't want any surprises.
Thanks-------*Hope this 2nd post doesn't disappear*


"no, it'll be locked instead. Problem finding your way over to general hardware or games or networking?"

Shadow ÒÓ------Thank you for locking it. Problem finding my way...????? Why the attitude???

[sfa ok]

I replied before, you need 2 lan cards, and a crossover cable of the desired length between them.

[Despotes]

A crossover cable? I'm not too familiar with them. Could you give me a description of it? Does it simply connect to both of the LAN cards?
Thanks

[Jon]

It looks the same as regular CAT5 ethernet cable. The difference is that the internal wiring on one end of the cable is reversed so that data collision will be avoided when directly connecting two PCs.

When purchasing, it will be specified on the package as being a crossover cable.

[Shadow ÒÓ]

considerably cheaper than purchasing a hub or switch. If you already have a hub/switch however, normal patch cables will do fine.

[RainMaQer]

Wow and this whole time I though I needed a hub to network two computers... so... just a crossover cable is needed?

[rUfUnKy]

Originally posted by RainMaQer
Wow and this whole time I though I needed a hub to netword two computers... so... just a crossover cable is needed? Yes that and three network cards...

[xdroorsx]

technically, two NIC cards are needed... i'm pretty sure he means that the third NIC would be used to connect to a dsl/cable modem :)

[Despotes]

Thanks everybody:) In summary, all I need are 2 NIC cards and a crossover cable? What site would have a crossover cable?
Thanks again:)

[Shadow ÒÓ]

they are not uncommon at all......anyone who carries patch cables should also carry cross over patch cables. You can also buy adapters which convert straight to x-over. They only cost a couple bucks (dependant on length) so I'd just run down to Radio Shack or something similiar and pick one up.

[Despotes]

I found some cables on the net-- 14' for $7.95. I have another question. At this site it mentions "Standard Ethernet(10BaseT)" and "Fast Ethernet(100BaseT)" cards that will be used with these cables. Which Ethernet(same as LAN?) card do I need? *Forgive my ignorance with networking*:beer:
Thank you

[jazztrumpet216]

10BaseT is a 10MBPS connection, 100BaseTX is a 100MBPS connection. For gaming, I'd go with 100BaseTX, you need a connection that's as fast as possible to get good ping times... likewise, make sure to buy Cat 5 (Cat 5e or Cat 6 will also do but it's overkill) cable.