3-26 
Connecting a DB9-to-RJ45 console cable 
 
 
guidelines when you connect a DB9-to-RJ45 console cable: 
  Identify the mark on the serial console port and make sure you are connecting to the correct port.
  The serial ports on PCs do not support hot swapping. To connect a PC to an operating switch, 
first connect the PC end. To disconnect a PC from an operating switch, first disconnect the switch 
end. 
 
A DB9-to-RJ45 console cable is an 8-core shielded cable, with a crimped RJ-45 connector at one 
end for connecting to the serial console port of the switch, and a DB-9 female connector at the other 
end for connecting to the serial port on the console terminal.  
Figure3-2 DB9-to-RJ45 console cable 
 
 
Table3-2 DB9-to-RJ45 console cable signal pinout 
RJ-45  Signal  DB-9  Signal 
1  RTS  8  CTS 
2  DTR  6  DSR 
3  TXD  2  RXD 
4  SG  5  SG 
5  SG  5  SG 
6  RXD  3  TXD 
7  DSR  4  DTR 
8  CTS  7  RTS 
 
To connect the switch to a configuration terminal (for example, a PC) through a DB9-to-RJ45 console 
cable: 
1.  Plug the DB-9 female connector of the DB9-to-RJ45 console cable to the serial port on the PC. 
2.  Connect the RJ-45 connector to the serial console port on the switch.