HP Cluster Platform, Introduction Manual

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Note:
An optional 16-port console switch is available for future expansion capability. The 16-port
console switch also offers dual console support.
Figure 2-27 shows an 8-port console switch only.
Figure 2-27 8–port Console Switch
The console switch has the following features:
•
On-Screen Display (OSD) – Displays system-related information on the console monitor,
such as selected server name, status, power-up test data, and configuration menus allows
for easy system administration.
• Programmable Scanning – An evaluation of system performance can be made by sequentially
scanning any or all of the computers in the system. Programmable scanning allows you to
determine which computers to include as well as the duration of the connection.
• Configuration NVRAM – NVRAM (nonvolatile RAM) makes it easy to set configuration
information using commands entered from the keyboard. The NVRAM stores the resulting
configuration until a user decision is made to change the information, even if the unit loses
power.
• Password Protection – For protection against unauthorized users, the switch box provides
a password option for security purposes.
• Switch Firmware Update – The application code of the switch can be quickly and easily
updated via FLASH ROM. The serial port communications settings are automatically
configured to allow direct downloading from the connected computer.
• Multiple Space Saving Zero-U Installation Methods
— Side Mount — Rails are provided for mounting the unit to the side of rack cabinets with
side mounting capability.
— Rear Rack Mount — HP console switches may be mounted behind an HP Integrated
Keyboard and Drawer (257054-XXX), the TFT5110R rack monitor, the TFT5600, or
TFT7600 rack-mounted keyboard and monitor with slide rails are provided with the
switch.
• Support for a variety of server connections with interface adapters:
— PS/2
— USB
— Serial Console Support
• KVM functionality removes distance limitations; rack servers can be accessed outside of the
data center.
• OSD security; system screen saver password engages after a user-defined time and prohibits
access until password is entered to reactivate the system support for up to 256 servers via
cascading.
• Use of interface adapters and UTP, CAT5, CAT6, or CAT7 cables significantly reduces cable
volume.
• UTP CAT5 cables are available in standard sizes (field termination is not required if standard
cable sizes are used).
• Attached servers can be multivendor platforms running a variety of operating systems.
2.7 KVM and Console Switches 53