connecting MBP to PC

Hi I hope this is the right place to post this question.
I'm a new switcher, just got a new MBP before the school year starts, and I've been trying to move files to it from the old PC (runing XP) using an Ethernet cable but cant seem to manage it.

Do I have to use a hub to do that ? I only have a regular cable thats usually connected to the ADSL modem.

Do I have to change Network Settings on the PC or the MAC ? I thought the MAC would automatically detect the XP....

any help with this questions would be welcomed

EDIT: forgot to say that I dont have a crossover cable just a regular ethernet cable

 

well direct transfer cables are usually only usb from what i know. and yes you do need a Router (hub) to create a network with the windows pc to transfer files.

 

You need a Cross crimped cable for a direct connection.....

 

Why not go get a wireless router? It will give you the network you want, plus added security, and no need for wires for you MBP.

Anyway, a crossover cable will work, or FireWire. I would just get a router and then come back and we can help you setup a network.

 

Put the Mac in target disk mode. Boot up holding T and connect a FireWire cable to both computers. Just install an HFS-reading program for Windows and boom.

 

That will only work the first time. After that it does not work until you go and delete all the drivers that get loaded. I tried this and could never get it to work properly. Plus MacDrive costs as much or more than a wireless router.

 

thanks for the quick reply

Do I need to get a router or would a simple USB wireless "stick" do ?

 

That would work as well. In fact, if you only have a small amount of data that would be best. For a large amount, then obviously that becomes less practical.

 

I got a few gigs of music.. still it will just have to do

thanks alot you guys I'll be back in about a week

 

The fast method in my mind is using the external hard drive. I wish that you had one.

 

I don't think you need a crossover cable. Regular ethernet should work.

The Apple ethernet adapter auto senses this. I'm 96.8% sure of this.

 

Sorry count but that's completely wrong.

It will probably automatically detect that you have a crossover cable, but you still definitely need a crossover cable.

 

George, don't clown me... :shifty

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=303490

 

Quoted for the PURE joy of it...

I don't mess, ok?

 

So it doesn't matter if the other NIC can't do this?

 

yes it doesnt matter. If one side can change the connection to crossover the other side can stay in normal mode.

 

Ah, duly noted.

I'm just laughing because count bothered making a thread about this in another forum we go to.

It's alright though, it's the only time he's ever proven me wrong about anything so I'm sure he's lied awake many nights fantasizing about this moment. :shifty

 

count is srs bsns. Don't step.

 

gtfo timmer