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1. Introduction
The RSM-8, RSM-16, RSM-16DC, RSM-32 and RSM-32DC Remote Site Managers
provide in-band and out-of-band access to RS-232 console ports and maintenance
ports on UNIX servers, routers and any other network element that includes a serial
console port. System administrators can access the RSM via TCP/IP network, using
SSH or Telnet, or out-of-band via modem or local terminal. The RSM features two
separate command interfaces; a convenient, user-friendly web browser interface, and a
simple, command driven text interface.
Intelligent Port Selection
Each of the RSM’s RS232 serial ports can be individually accessed by number, name or
group via SSH or Telnet sessions. The RSM also allows direct connections using TCP
port assignments. Each RSM serial port can be separately configured using simple
menu driven commands to set the port password, data rate, flow control and other
operating parameters.
The full matrix capability of the RSM allows you to easily connect any two ports on the
switch, even when the ports are using different communications settings. Ports can
also be connected or disconnected by a third party with supervisor rights, and system
managers can swap various RS232 devices between ports at a remote location.
Security and Collocation Features
Secure Shell (SSHv2) encryption and address-specific IP security masks prevent
unauthorized access to command and configuration functions. The RSM also provides
two different levels of user security; the Supervisor level and the Non-Supervisor
level. The Supervisor level, which is intended for use by system managers and other
administrators, provides complete access to all RSM port connection / disconnection
functions, operating features and configuration menus, and also allows access to
any port on the switch. The Non-Supervisor level is ideal for collocation applications,
since users are only permitted to view status and connect to the ports allowed by their
password.
Capture Buffer
"Buffer Mode" allows individual ports to capture and store incoming data, such as error
and status messages received from attached console ports. This "snapshot" of the last
data received is stored in memory, and can be viewed, saved, or erased by the system
operator at any time. Console messages can be stored in the RSM port buffers, and
sent to a remote location via SYSLOG, or an SNMP message can be generated to alert
administrators when new console messages are received.