Newer switches ship with a USB interface for the console, but getting it running can be tricky. Here is some useful info:
- Get the drivers: https://supportforums.cisco.com/sites/default/files/attachments/document/cisco_usbconsole_driver_3_1.zip
- Install the drivers
- Connect the USB cable and let it setup
- Open up Device Manager –>Ports and you will see USB Serial Port on COM4. Right-Click it and Update Driver Software. Click Browse My Computer, then Let me Pick.
- Select Cisco Serial
- Open up your console program (Putty, etc) and set it to use COM4
