We've had problems with Hyperterminal and switch management in Windows XP - the problem has been traced to an issue with the version of Hyperterminal bundled in the OS. The correct settings, however, are 9600-8-none-1, and none for flow control.
I usually recommend using either Tera Term (a Google search should pull it up), or download Hyperterminal Personal Edition from http://www.hilgraeve.com - either should work without a problem under XP.
If you are still unable to get in with the default password:
In response to customer request and in order to provide information to customers in the most efficient manner, we are providing the password recovery procedure for PowerConnect switches.
Going forward, providing the necessary physical security to prevent unauthorized access to the console port will be left up to the customer.
For the 3248/5212/5224 products:
Note: This password recovery procedure involves rebooting the switch to the Factory Defaults. This will cause the loss of any current configuration on the switch.
1. Connect to the switch via the console port and manually reboot the switch 2. As soon as power is applied, press and hold the <Ctrl> and <F> keys simultaneously 3. At the menu, press R for the "[R]eturn to Factory Default" option 4. The switch will reboot and all configuration changes and password information is cleared
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