PowerConnect 2216 Issue

I Am currently putting a network together with four client computers and a server. I am using a PowerConnect Unmanaged switch 2216. The network does not have Internet access and it is using a PowereEdge Server To assign IP addresses via dhcp. My problem is two of the computers are not connecting they are; dell laptops and they are both running windows xp professional and are always on. I have gotten them to connect to the dhcp server by means of a short three or four foot cable sitting next to the 2216. I will draw a diagram of the network to better help you diagnos my problem. Here is the picture "http://www.clan-boa.com/network.jpg"(I will take this down on May 1st 2005) let me narrate it for you, The Desktops are both windows xp, one is home one is professional both connect to the dhcp server. The Laptops which are red do not connect to the dhcp server unless I put them on a short cable(which means i have to unplug them and move them into the room with the switch and plug them back in.). I changed the cable in The room farthest to the right, thats why it goes around the walls(and through one wall). On the left I have the Cables going up the wall then across the room then down the wall. The server to the 2216 is run around the room. I have checked the cable that goes to the laptop on the left by plugging it into the Desktop on the left and pinging the server.

I really need help with this, What I figure is wrong is, the cables are to long but that does not make and sence because the desktop works on the long cable... I am stumped.

Postnote: Wireless is not an option.

Thank you for reading that ~~Jeddaka

Message Edited by jeddaka on 03-25-2005 05:07 PM