IBM Rack-Based Local Console Switches
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IBM Rack-Based Local Console Switches
IBM System x at-a-glance guide
The family of IBM rack-based local console switches is designed to provide exceptional scalability and
flexibility in managing data center environments. They give server administrators the power to centrally
manage multiple servers from a single keyboard, mouse, and display. The CAT5-based switches work
across all major platforms, are rack-mountable, and provide access for up to two simultaneous local
users.
Figure 1. The IBM Rack Console Switches
Did You Know?
Each of these keyboard-video-mouse (KVM) switches does more than just support the connection of eight
or 16 direct-attach systems. With either daisy-chaining or tiered console switches, you can manage up to
128 systems from a single desktop using the 1x8 switch, up to 256 with the 2x16 switch, and up to 512
target systems with three tiers of LCM2 switches.
The LCM2 also supports a virtual media solution where you can connect a USB storage device directly to
the LCM2 switch or leverage the integrated optical drive or USB pass-through on an attached 17" or 19"
console kit and simply map the device directly to any servers attached to the switch with a Virtual Media
Conversion Option (VCO). This solution eliminates the need to physically locate each system in the rack
when transferring data during deployment or patching multiple servers.
