use console server with ubuntu linux

I've got a Lantronix SLC16 Console Server, and I want to use it with my ubuntu servers. I'd like to be at home and still be able to access the server consoles, in case I need to log in and the machines aren't on the network.

On the console server, set up a port. 

[console_server]> set deviceport port 15 baud 115200
[console_server]> set deviceport port 15 name server_name

and connect the console server port to the server's serial port with one of those RJ45--Serial DB9 cables.

On the servers, change these files, update grub, and reboot (note: I'm using Ubuntu 10.04). 

server$ cat /etc/init/ttyS0.conf
# ttyS0 - getty
#
# serial console

start on stopped rc RUNLEVEL=[2345]
stop on runlevel [!2345]

respawn
exec /sbin/getty -L 115200 ttyS0 vt102

server$ grep ttyS0 /etc/default/grub
GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX_DEFAULT="nosplash console=tty0 console=ttyS0,115200n8"

server$ update-grub
server$ sync; sync; reboot

Now connect to the serial console port, watch the boot messages go by, and wait for the login prompt: 

remote_machine$ ssh serial_console
Password: 

Welcome to the SecureLinx Console Manager
Model Number: SLC16
For a list of commands, type 'help'.

[console_server]> connect direct deviceport 15

Connecting to Device Port 15.
Connected to port 15. Escape sequence is ESC A

Ubuntu 10.04.1 LTS server ttyS0

server login:

Notes

  1. You might need to hit ENTER a few times to get the login prompt.
  2. I used to have a cyclades console server, but I think they were bought by Avocent. When my cyclades died, I bought a Lantronix.

Useful links

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Last Modified: Wed 22 Dec 2010 10:05:21 AM EST