DB9 serial connectors are no longer in common usage. Computer companies adopted a more standardized connection for their peripherals by using either USB or wireless devices. Older peripherals still use serial connections. Network technicians have also discovered that the older serial connectors can be made to work with Ethernet cables. To do this, one must pop pins in the male DB9 connectors to make it match a female Ethernet plug. Which pins need to be removed will depend on the type of connection being created.

Instructions

1 Hold the male DB9 connector so the longer row of 5 pins is on the top.

2 Identify the pin to be removed. The pins are numbered (from left to right) 1 through 5 on the top row, and 6 through 9 on the bottom.

3 Place the tip of the 1/8-inch flat-head screwdriver against the base of the pin to be removed and press down until it breaks, or "pops" off the connector. Remove the broken pin using tweezers.

4 Disconnect the electrical wires from the back end of the pin to guarantee no connection can still be made through the pin opening. Remove screws holding the cover on the connector case, and break the wires from the soldered point where the pin had been.