Questions about getting started with Force10 S60

I'm new to the world of networking, and espically to command line interfaces. I bought a Force10 S60 for $35 on ebay, hoping to be able to configure it, and get it working in my home networking setup. I have a few questions though. 1) There are a few ports on the switch that do nothing when I plug my computer into them. No connection, or activity lights, on either end. Could these be disabled internally? or could I have about 6 dead ports? 3 of them are in a row, and the other 3 are scattered throughout the switch. 2) Can anyone recommend a specific rj45 to serial cable? I need to configure this, and can't get the USB interface to work. 4) Should this be able to work as a dumb switch when it's not configured? Currently, I can't get internet through the switch, I have a known working connection to the Ethernet port, but can't get a connection through to any of the ports. 5) How will I be able to see the bootup of this? I'm assuming it will be the ssh once I get a serial cable. 6) This one is a shot in the dark, but its not a big deal, is there a way to monitor and control the fans? 

Thanks, and I'm sorry if any of these are stupid questions.