KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) remote control switches are essential tools in rack-dense datacentres. So too are console servers. They provide remote access to devices such as Ethernet switches and routers via serial ports.

UltraConsole combines the two in one unit that can be expanded to remotely manage up to 1,000 servers or devices from one central station.

The rack-mountable base unit is just 1U high for the four-port and eight-port models and 2U for the 16-port version. Port capacity can be increased by fitting an expansion card and connecting other UltraConsole switches. Network managers can also connect to ordinary Rose UltraMatrix switches, which do not have the serial console capabilities.

Servers and other devices are attached using custom UltraCable leads.

These can be up to 30m in length, with cables available for the attachment of hardware and computers from Sun, along with devices using USB or serial interfaces.

Prices depend on type and length, a standard 2m PS/2 cable starting at £50 + VAT. Another cable is needed for the KVM station, effectively the keyboard, video screen and mouse that will be used to remotely manage devices attached to the UltraConsole.

Multiple KVM stations can be supported when other switches are connected together, and there is built-in security to prevent access by unauthorised users to specific ports. An on-screen menuing system, the Advanced Video Interface (AVI), makes it easy to select the port to access, with keyboard shortcuts also available.

By combining a serial console with a KVM switch, a network manager gets full access to everything in the datacentre rack. Firms could use software remote control alternatives and Telnet, but they only work when the network is up and the software required is loaded. A hardware solution such as UltraConsole provides full access regardless of the state of the attached devices, with power cycling management available as an add-on.

Contact Rose Electronics 01264 850 574

Price: £1,100 + VAT