>*) What is the ethernet cable supposed to look like? A standard >cable? A crossover cable? A custom cable?
Ethernet cable and console cables both use RJ45 plugs. However, copper ethernet and console cables are wired differently so you have to use the correct cable for the correct job. Ethernet is for 'normal' network comms (e.g. AP to switch) a console cable is for serial to serial comms, using a termianl emulator like Putty. You wouldn't use a crossover cable to talk to an AP, this is normally used for connecting devices directly, usually of the same type.
A lot of cables have what they are printed on the side. Do a google on different cables, e.g. search for CAT 5/ 5e, 6 and 6a ethernet (though I'd recommend not using CAT 5 or 5e these days). The other way of working out what a cable is is by looking at the wiring order in the plug - again google for this.
>*) I don't have a Com1 port on my laptop. How do I install one for this testing that talks out my ethernet?
Use a serial to USB convertor.
However, as Colin says if this is a controller based AP it will not work without a controller even if you are able to console into it, you will just see on the readout that it is trying to find a controller.
If you don't have a controller you have to buy instant APs.
Alexander.