unix to unix serial connection question

hi there i'm a new bie

just got few simple questions to ask.
I got expert in windows configuration but totally new to unix environment . I want to make sure a com port (com1) is working, so I connect a 9-pin cable (CB9) for both PC using Unix environment (unix to unix).

The question are (1) I donno the step of configuration for the ports , (2)how to make sure the configuration is correct (3)how do I know the ports are working. really donno......

can someone please help me!!!!!!!

What is the OS and version?

Solaris - you can run the admintool gui.
HP - you can do it via sam