Two data center elements that make management easier are KVM switches
and serial console servers. Both can be instrumental in making maintenance
windows easier to run by making it possible to remotely access the console
of a machine
A KVM switch permits multiple computers to all share the same keyboard,
video display, and mouse. AKVMswitch saves space in a data center—
monitors and keyboards take up a lot of space—and makes access more convenient;
indeed, more sophisticated console access systems can be accessed
from anywhere in the network.
A serial console server connects devices with serial consoles—systems
without video output, such as network routers, switches, and many UNIX
servers—to one central device with many serial inputs. By connecting to the
console server, a user can then connect to the serial console of the other
devices. All the computer room equipment that is capable of supporting a
serial console should have its serial console connected to some kind of console
concentrator, such as a networked terminal server.
Much work during a maintenance window requires direct console access.
Using console access devices permits people to work from their own
desks rather than having to try to coordinate access for many people to the
very limited number of monitors in the computer room or having to waste
computer room space, power, and cooling with more monitors. It is also more
convenient for the individual SAs to work in their own workspace with their
preparatory notes and reference materials around them.