Null-Modem Cable

What Does Null-Modem Cable Mean?

A null-modem cable is a type of specialized cable that allows users to eliminate traditional device-linking systems (such as a modem). With a null-modem cable, users can link two computers to enable direct communication through serial port connections.

Advertisements

A null-modem cable is also known as a crossover cable.

Techopedia Explains Null-Modem Cable

Typically, null-modem cables utilize RS-232 communications ports for transmission and receipt. Use of these cables may require handshake authentication. Null-modem cables are often used for localized gaming, where two computers are in proximity, or for linking a specific computer to a greater hardware system. The basic idea of using null-modem cables is that those who are paying for hardware setups can eliminate the purchase of connecting devices or more costly solutions just by using one of these crossover cables.

Advertisements

Related Terms

Latest Hardware Terms

Related Reading

Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…