IBM Rack-Based Local Console Switches
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Figure 2. IBM KVM Conversion Option, KCO (top) and IBM USB Conversion Option, UCO (bottom)
The built-in memory of each connection option helps simplify configuration by assigning and retaining
unique server identification codes for each attached server. This integrated intelligence enhances security
and helps prevent unauthorized access to a server through cable manipulation. The connection option is
powered directly from the server, providing Keep Alive functionality even if the server is not powered on.
OSCAR user interface :
The On-Screen Configuration and Activity Reporting (OSCAR) user interface is the way users access the
target systems. Accessible by default via the Print Screen key, it has menus to configure the switching
system and to select computers. You can list target devices by unique name, electronic ID, or port
number.
Security:
All of these local console switches support the use of a password for access to the target systems. The
OSCAR interface enables you to configure a screen saver password; you are prompted for the password
after a configurable time-out, when the user logs out, or when the switch is powered on. This prevents
unauthorized access to the target systems.
In addition, the OSCAR interface on the 1x8 and 2x16 console switches lets you configure up to four user
accounts, and you can specify which target systems each of those accounts can access.
Firmware updates:
All of these local console switches can have their firmware updated. The 1x8 and 2x16 console switches
enable the updating of firmware via the serial port. The LCM2 lets you update the firmware using a serial
port console and a TFTP server using the Ethernet connection. With all of these console switches, once
the console switch firmware is updated, the firmware of the Conversion Options can be performed via the
OSCAR user interface, either individually or all Conversion Options can all be upgrade simultaneously.
Automatic updates of the Conversion Options is also possible.
