Contrary to popular belief, it is possible (and easy) to connect two 10BASE-T
network adapters (such as those in the AE-3 starter kit) directly to each other
via twisted pair WITHOUT using a hub. Here's how to do it:

First, make two short cables with 8 position modular plugs on each end. These
cables will be used to go between the computers and the wall jacks. If you are
using flat modular cable, keep its length to an absolute minimum. These cables
should be connected pin-for-pin. This means having the same color conductor on
the same pin of each connector. To check whether the pins are the same, hold
the two connectors side by side (NOT end to end) with the release pins facing
away from you. The same color should be on the left on both ends. If there is
a ridge down one side of the cable, it should go toward the release pin on one
plug, and away from the release pin on the other end.  Do not use round cable
with solid conductors for the wall cables unless you have modular plugs made
specially for use with solid wire. If you make your cables using the wrong
type of connector for solid wire, the network will most likely work for a few
weeks and then fail as the conductors oxidize. We strongly encourage the use
of a metal crimp tool.

Now for the wall jacks. Different manufacturers have different color codes and
numbering schemes for their 8 position wall jacks. Beware of the jacks 
intended for use with MERLIN phone systems. They are not numbered the same as
a RJ-45 jack. We use a SUTTLE part #SE697B8 jack for our installations. It is 
important to use PAIRED unshielded cable between the two jacks. Although
standard station wire (red, green, black, yellow) will work fine in many
installations, the loose jacket twisted pair type (blue-white, orange-white)
works much better and has far superior common-mode rejection (immunity to
electrical interference). DO NOT USE MODULAR CABLE IN THE WALLS! Remember this
scheme will only work between two adapters. More than two adapters REQUIRES an
active hub. The color code for the wall jacks is as follows:

JACK "A"               JACK "B"
1 white-blue           1 white-orange
2 blue-white           2 orange-white
3 white-orange         3 white-blue
6 orange-white         6 blue-white

One final note: Make sure the network adapters are jumpered for 10BASE-T
operation rather than coax or AUI.

This information is provided by Rick Curl of HATCHERY SYSTEMS, Birmingham, AL
(205) 681-3201.  We are network consultants specializing in LANTASTIC.

A good source for cable, connectors, and crimp tools is ALTEX ELECTRONICS in
San Antonio, Texas (800) 531-5369