Western Telematic CMS-16 manual Introduction, Typographic Conventions

WTI CMS-16; Console Management Switch -- User's Guide

1. Introduction

The CMS-16 Console Port Management Switch provides secure, in-band and/or out-of-band access to RS232 console ports and maintenance ports on UNIX servers, routers and other network equipment. System Administrators can access remote devices in order to change configuration parameters, connect users to restricted ports, collect buffered data, and perform a variety of other administrative functions.

Versatile Connectivity

Up to 16 different devices can be connected to the CMS without the need to select a common baud rate or parity. Each port can be individually configured for specific baud rates, parity, handshaking, and various other parameters and options.

Easy Set-Up and Operation

Configuration of the CMS is simple. A menuing system is used to select parameters, and enable options. The CMS can easily adapt to the requirements of almost any data communications application.

Limited Command Access

The CMS is ideal for situations that require limited access to important commands. Two security levels allow each port to function as a Supervisor Port or User Port, depending on the password entered at login. Supervisor Ports are allowed to change configuration, display status, and connect to any other port; User ports are only allowed to connect to the ports provided by their password. Each individual port can be assigned its own unique, user-defined password, up to sixteen characters long.

Non-Volatile Memory

If AC power to the unit is lost or interrupted, the CMS's non-volatile memory will retain user-defined parameters and port connections.

Modem and Telnet Communication

The CMS can be controlled by a local PC that communicates with the unit via cable, or controlled remotely via external modem or telnet connection. Your terminal emulation or telnet program is used to send commands to connect ports or display status.

Configuration Backup

Once you have configured the CMS to fit your application, parameters and options can be saved to an ASCII text file on your PC. This allows you to quickly restore user-selected parameters if the unit configuration is accidentally altered or deleted. Saved parameters can also be uploaded to other CMS units. This allows rapid set-up when several units will be configured with identical or similar parameters.

Typographic Conventions

Throughout this User's Guide, typefaces and characters are used to denote the following:

^	Indicates a control character. For example, the text "^X" (Control X)
(e.g. ^X)	indicates the [Ctrl] key and the [X] key must be pressed
	simultaneously.

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