23 Apr
2011
23 Apr
'11
5:03 a.m.
--- snip ---
>
>Has anyone used any of the serial port ethernet servers (aka port
>directors) and how well did they work?
Now that we have more details I'd say that the
best solution is
either this, or else a dedicated low-end x86 PC running OpenBSD. In
either case the 'fun' part could very well be wiring the two
together. Honestly I'd recommend a PC with OpenBSD over a Serial
Port ethernet server.
--- snip ---
A VPN router and a 4 or 8-port terminal server should be adequate.
Xyplex terminal servers, while a PITA to configure, seem pretty darned stable.
An MX1600-04 is a 1U rack size, and can support 16 concurrent sessions.
It's best to use them with a multiplexor that supports modem control though,
so that if your Telnet session drops, your interactive session becomes detached.
Otherwise, the next person connecting will pick up your session.
I've successfully interfaced Xyplex series routers with Emulex CS02's, and
DHV11's.
It's been some time since I've messed with them, though, so I can't readily
spout the exact terminal server settings & cable pin-outs, so I'd have to
dig them out of my storage unit for examination.
Lantronix terminal servers will also work; they're alot smaller, but not my favorite.
(I couldn't get rid of the pesky "Welcome to the Lantronix Terminal Server"
message.)
T