Dell 2321DS User Manual
Dell™ Remote Console Switch
System User’s Guide
Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better
use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss
of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
___________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2008 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
2161DS-2/4161DS/2321DS Remote Console Switch
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590-728-599C/59E-728-599C
October 2008
Model 2161DS-2/4161DS/2321DS Remote Console Switch
Safety and EMC Approvals and Markings
• UL / cUL
• CE - EU
•N (Nemko)
•GOST
•C-Tick
•NOM / NYCE
•MIC (BCC)
•SASO
•TUV-GS
•IRAM
•FCC, ICES,
•VCCI
•SoNCAP
•SABS
•Bellis
•FIS/ Kvalitet
•Koncar
•CKT
•INSM
•Ukrtest
•STZ
Safety certifications and EMC certifications for this product are obtained under
one or more of the following designations: CMN (Certification Model
Number), MPN (Manufacturer’s Part Number) or Sales Level Model
designation. The designation that is referenced in the EMC and/or safety
reports and certificates is printed on the label applied to this product.
Please refer to the
Dell Regulatory Technical Bulletin
included with your Remote
Console Switch for more detailed EMC and EA text.
Contents
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv
1 Product Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Remote Console Switch Features and Benefits. . . . . . 1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv
General
Rack Mounting of Systems
. . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi
LAN Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
SIP Intelligent Module
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Multiplatform Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Interoperability with Avocent® IQ Module Intelligent
Cabling
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
OSCAR Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
On-board Web Interface
DSView® 3 Management Software Plug-in
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
. . . . . 2
Virtual Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Security
Encryption
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Operation Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Video
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FLASH Upgradeable
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Cascade (Tier) Expansion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
iv Contents
Remote Console Switch Software Features and Benefits 5
Easy to Install and Configure
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Powerful Customization Capabilities . . . . . . . . . 6
Extensive Remote Console Switch Management
IPv4 and IPv6 Capabilities
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
. . 6
LDAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Interoperability with Avocent Products
. . . . . . . 6
2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Remote Console Switch Quick Setup Checklist . . . . . 8
Remote Console Switch Installation and Setup
Getting Started
Setting Up Your Network
Keyboards
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Rack Mounting Your Remote Console Switch Unit
Installing the Remote Console Switch Unit
Video Optimization
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . 10
. . . 11
. . . . . 15
Mouse Acceleration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Connecting a SIP
Adding a Cascade Switch
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Cascading with Legacy Switches . . . . . . . . . 29
Adding a PEM (Optional)
Connecting to the Network
On-board Web Interface Installation and Setup
Supported Browsers
Launching the On-board Web Interface
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. . . . . . 32
Remote Console Switch Software Installation and Setup
Installing the Remote Console Switch Software
. . 34
33
3 Controlling Your System at the Analog
Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Viewing and Selecting Ports and Devices . . . . . . . 36
Selecting Devices
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Contents v
Soft Switching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Navigating the OSCAR Interface
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Configuring OSCAR Interface Menus . . . . . . . . . . 41
Changing the Display Behavior
. . . . . . . . . . . 42
Setting Console Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Controlling the Status Flag
Setting the Interface Language
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
. . . . . . . . . . . 48
Assigning Device Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Assigning Device Names
Configuring Network Settings
Displaying Version Information
Scanning Your System
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
. . . . . . . . . . . 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Setting the Preemption Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Displaying Configuration Information
Running System Diagnostics
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
. . . . . . . . . . 56
Broadcasting to Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Power Controlling Devices
Power window
PDUs window
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
PDU Settings window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
PDU Inlets window
PDU Outlets window
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
4 Remote Console Switch Software
Basic Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
vi Contents
Launching the Remote Console Switch Software. . . . 65
Navigating the Remote Console Switch Software . . . 65
Viewing Your System in the Explorer
Explorer Window Features
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
. . . . . . . . 66
Adding a Remote Console Switch or Avocent Remote
Console Switch
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Accessing Your Remote Console Switch
Launching the VNC or RDP Viewer
. . . . . . . . 75
. . . . . . . . . . . 77
Changing Server and Switch Properties . . . . . . . . 78
Changing General Properties
. . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Changing Server Network Properties . . . . . . . 80
Changing Switch Network Properties
Changing Information Properties
. . . . . . . 81
. . . . . . . . . . 83
Viewing Server Connections Properties . . . . . . 84
VNC properties
RDP properties
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Accessing a Server via a Browser Window . . . . 89
Changing Server and Switch Options . . . . . . . . . . 89
General options
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
HTTP/HTTPS options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
VNC options
RDP options
Organizing Your System
Modifying Custom Field Names
Creating Folders
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
. . . . . . . . . . 95
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Assigning a Unit to a Site, Location, or Folder . . . 96
Deleting and Renaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Customizing the Explorer Window
Modifying the Selected View on Startup
Changing the Default Browser
. . . . . . . . . . . 99
. . . . . . 99
. . . . . . . . . . . 100
Contents vii
Managing Your Local Databases . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Saving a Database
Exporting a Database
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Loading a Database. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
5 Using the Viewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Accessing Servers from the Remote Console Switch
Software
Accessing Servers from the On-board Web Interface 105
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Interacting With the Server Being Viewed
Viewer Window Features
Adjusting the Viewer
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
. . . . . . 106
Adjusting the Viewer Resolution . . . . . . . . . 111
Adjusting the Video Quality
. . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Minimizing Remote Video Session Discoloration
Improving Screen Background Color Display . . 114
Setting Mouse Scaling
Minimizing Mouse Trailing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
. . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Improving Mouse Performance . . . . . . . . . 116
Reducing Mouse Cursor Flickering
. . . . . . . . 117
Viewing Multiple Servers Using the Scan Mode
Scanning Your Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Thumbnail View Status Indicators
Navigating the Thumbnail Viewer
. . . . . . . . 120
. . . . . . . . 121
Using Macros to Send Keystrokes to the Server . 122
Session Options - General Tab
Screen Capturing
Preemption
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
. . . . . . . . . . 123
Preemption of Remote User by a Remote
Administrator
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
. 114
. 117
viii Contents
Preemption of a Local User/Remote Administrator
by a Remote Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Connection Sharing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
6 Virtual Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Common Virtual Media Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Configuring Virtual Media Locally
. . . . . . . . . . . 130
Enabling/Disabling Virtual Media Using the
OSCAR Interface
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Setting Virtual Media Options Using the OSCAR
Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Configuring Virtual Media Remotely
. . . . . . . . . . 133
Enabling/Disabling Virtual Media Using the
On-board Web Interface
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Setting Virtual Media Options Using the On-board
Web Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Launching Virtual Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Virtual Floppy Drive
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Virtual CD/DVD Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Virtual Media Connection Status
Reserving a Virtual Media Session
. . . . . . . . . . 138
. . . . . . . . . 139
Resetting the USB Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
7 Managing Your Remote Console Switch Using the
On-board Web Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Migrating Switches from the Remote Console
Switch Software
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Viewing and Configuring Remote Console Switch
Parameters
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Changing Remote Console Switch Parameters
Contents ix
. . 141
Setting Up User Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Locking and Unlocking User Accounts
. . . . . . 147
Enabling and Configuring SNMP . . . . . . . . . 148
Enabling Individual SNMP Traps
Viewing and Resynchronizing Server Connections
. . . . . . . . . 150
151
Modifying a Server Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Viewing and Configuring Tiered Switch
Connections
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Viewing the SIPs and Avocent IQ Modules. . . . 154
Viewing Remote Console Switch Version Information 155
SIPs Subcategory
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Upgrading Firmware
Controlling User Status
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Rebooting Your System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Managing Remote Console Switch Configuration Files
Managing User Databases
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
164
Installing a Web Certificate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Managing PDUs
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
8 Migrating Your Remote Console Switch 171
Accessing the AMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Upgrading Firmware Using the AMP . . . . . . . . . 172
Upgrading Remote Console Switch Firmware
Migrating Remote Console Switches to the On-board
Web Interface
Using the Resync Wizard
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
. . 172
x Contents
9 LDAP Feature for the Remote Console
Switch
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
The Structure of Active Directory
Domain Controller Computers
Object Classes
Attributes
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
. . . . . . . . . . . . 177
. . . . . . . . . . . 178
Schema Extensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Standard Schema versus Dell Extended Schema. . . . 180
Standard Installation
Configure the Override Admin Account
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
. . . . . . . . . 182
Configuring DNS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Configuring the Network Time Protocol Settings
Configuring the LDAP Authentication Parameters
. . . . 183
. . . 184
LDAP SSL Certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Enabling SSL on a Domain Controller
. . . . . . . 187
Login Timeout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
CA Certificate Information Display . . . . . . . . . . . 192
Configuring Group Objects
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Active Directory Object Overview for Standard
Schema
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Dell Extended Schema Active Directory Object
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Configuring Active Directory with Dell Schema
Extensions to Access Your RCS
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Extending the Active Directory Schema (Optional)
202
Contents xi
Installing the Dell Extension to the Active Directory
Users and Computers Snap-In (Optional). . . . . 203
Adding Users and Privileges to Active Directory with
Dell Schema Extensions
Creating a SIP Object
Creating a Privilege Object . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Using Dell Association Objects Syntax . . . . . . . . 205
Creating an Association Object
Adding Objects to an Association Object. . . . . 206
Console Redirection Access Security. . . . . . . . . 207
Using Active Directory to Log In to the Remote
Console Switch
Target Device Naming Requirements for LDAP
Implementation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
. . . . . . . . . . 206
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
A Appendix A: Updating the Remote Console Switch
Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
B Appendix B: Remote Console Switch Software
Keyboard and Mouse Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . 213
C Appendix C: TCP Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
D Appendix D: MIBs and SNMP Traps . . . 217
xii Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
MIB Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Enterprise Traps
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
E Appendix E: FLASH Upgrades . . . . . . . . 247
Upgrading the Remote Console Switch . . . . . . 247
Upgrading the SIP module firmware . . . . . . . . 250
F Appendix F: Technical Specifications. . 253
G Appendix G: Technical Support . . . . . . . 257
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
Contents xiii
Safety Precautions
Use the following safety guidelines to help ensure your own personal safety
and to help protect your system and working environment from potential
damage.
CAUTION: The power supplies in your system may produce high voltages and
energy hazards, which can cause bodily harm. Only trained service technicians
are authorized to remove the covers and access any of the components inside the
system. This warning applies to Dell™ PowerEdge™ servers and Dell
PowerVault™ storage systems.
This document pertains only to the Dell 2161DS-2/4161DS/2321DS Console
Switch. You should also read and follow the additional safety instructions.
•The
•The
• The appropriate Avocent installer/user guide for your product, if
General
• Observe and follow service markings.
• Do not service any product except as explained in your system
documentation.
• Opening or removing covers that are marked with the triangular symbol
with a lightning bolt may expose you to electrical shock.
• Components inside these compartments should be serviced only by a
trained service technician.
– This product contains no serviceable components. Do not attempt to
Remote Console Switch Installation Guide
solution that describes how to install your system into a rack.
User’s Guide
operating your rack mounted server system.
applicable. Visit
open.
which provides information about setting up and
avocent.com/manuals
included with your rack
for more information.
xiv
• If any of the following conditions occur, unplug the product from the
electrical outlet and replace the part or contact your trained service
provider:
– The power cable, extension cable, or plug is damaged.
– An object has fallen into the product.
– The product has been exposed to water.
– The product has been dropped or damaged.
– The product does not operate correctly when you follow the operating
instructions.
• Keep your system away from radiators and heat sources. Also, do not block
cooling vents.
• Do not spill food or liquids on your system components, and never operate
the product in a wet environment. If the system gets wet, see the
appropriate section in your troubleshooting guide or contact your trained
service provider.
• Use the product only with approved equipment.
• Allow the product to cool before removing covers or touching internal
components.
• Operate the product only from the type of external power source indicated
on the electrical ratings label. If you are not sure of the type of power
source required, consult your service provider or local power company.
NOTICE: To help avoid damaging your system, be sure the voltage selection switch
(if provided) on the power supply is set for the voltage that most closely matches
the AC power available in your location. Also be sure that your monitor and
attached devices are electrically rated to operate.
• Be sure that your monitor and attached devices are electrically rated to
operate with the power available in your location.
• Use only power cables provided with this product.
• To help prevent electric shock, plug the system and peripheral power
cables into properly grounded electrical outlets. These cables are equipped
with three-prong plugs to help ensure proper grounding. Do not use
adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong from a cable.
xv
• Observe extension cable and power strip ratings. Make sure that the total
ampere rating of all products plugged into the power strip does not exceed
80 percent of the ampere ratings limit for the power strip.
• To help protect your system from sudden, transient increases and
decreases in electrical power, use a surge suppressor, line conditioner, or
uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
• Position system cables and power cables carefully. Route cables so that they
cannot be stepped on or tripped over. Be sure that nothing rests on any
cables.
• Do not modify power cables or plugs. Consult a licensed electrician or your
power company for site modifications. Always follow your local/national
wiring rules.
Rack Mounting of Systems
• Refer to the rack installation documentation accompanying the rack for
specific caution statements and procedures.
• System rack kits are intended to be installed in a rack by trained service
technicians. If a non-Dell rack is utilized, be sure that the rack meets the
specifications of a Dell rack.
• Elevated Ambient Temperature: If installed in a closed rack assembly, the
operation temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room
ambient. Use care not to exceed the rated maximum ambient temperature
of the unit.
• Reduced Air Flow: Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such
that the amount of airflow required for safe operation of the equipment is
not compromised.
• Mechanical Loading: Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be
such that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical
loading.
• Circuit Overloading: Consideration should be given to the connection of
the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of
circuits might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Consider
equipment nameplate ratings for maximum current.
xvi
• Reliable Earthing: Reliable earthing of rack mounted equipment should be
maintained. Pay particular attention to supply connections other than
direct connections to the branch circuit (for example, use of power strips).
LAN Options
• Do not connect or use during a lightning storm. There may be a risk of
electrical shock from lightning.
• Never connect or use in a wet environment.
xvii
1
Product Overview
The multiuser, Dell™ 2161DS-2/4161DS/2321DS Remote Console Switch
integrates Dell field-proven digital keyboard, video and mouse (KVM)
switching technology with advanced cable management, flexible access for up
to four simultaneous users, and a patented, next-generation user interface.
The Remote Console Switch features user-side USB and PS/2 ports that
support major device platforms.
Using powerful on-screen management through the OSCAR
Remote Console Switch Software, or on-board web interface provides easy
system configuration and device selection.
Remote Console Switch Features and Benefits
SIP Intelligent Module
The Remote Console Switch also provides SIP intelligent module capability.
The SIP module with CAT 5 design dramatically reduces cable clutter, while
providing optimal resolution and video settings. The built-in memory of the
SIP module simplifies configuration by assigning and retaining unique device
names and Electronic ID (EID) numbers for each attached device. The SIP
module is powered directly from the device and provides Keep Alive
functionality even if the Remote Console Switch is not powered.
PS/2 and USB SIP modules are available allowing direct KVM connectivity to
devices. A USB2 virtual media SIP is also available. Each Remote Console
Switch has up to 32 Analog Rack Interface (ARI) ports for connecting SIP
modules.
Utilizing the SIP module, you can attach additional switches to expand your
Remote Console Switch system. This flexibility allows you to add capacity as
your data center grows.
®
interface,
Product Overview 1
Multiplatform Support
The Dell SIP modules available for use with the Remote Console Switch
support PS/2, USB and USB2 device environments. Using the OSCAR
interface
in conjunction with these modules allows you to switch easily
across platforms.
®
Interoperability with Avocent® IQ Module Intelligent Cabling
Avocent IQ module intelligent cable may also be used to connect devices to
the Remote Console Switch. PS/2, USB, Sun
available. For more information, please refer to the appropriate Avocent
installer/user guide for your product. Visit avocent.com/manuals for more
information.
®
, and serial cabling options are
OSCAR Interface
You can use the OSCAR interface to manage the Remote Console Switch.
OSCAR features intuitive menus to configure your switch system and select
computers. Devices can be identified by a name, EID, or port number,
allowing you to assign unique device names.
On-board Web Interface
The on-board web interface provides similar management functions as the
Remote Console Switch Software, but does not require a software server or
any installation. The on-board web interface is launched directly from the
switch, and any servers connected to the Remote Console Switch are
automatically detected. You can use the on-board web interface to configure
Remote Console Switches from a web browser. Launch the Viewer from the
on-board web interface to establish KVM and virtual media sessions to target
devices. The on-board web interface also supports LDAP authentication,
which
allows permissions for multiple Remote Console Switches to be managed
through a single interface.
DSView® 3 Management Software Plug-in
The Avocent® DSView 3 management software is a secure, web browserbased, centralized enterprise management solution that allows users to
remotely access, manage, monitor, and control target devices through
managed appliances. A session may be launched to a target device with a
single point of access.
Product Overview 2
You can manage and connect to multi-vendor servers and devices from within
the DSView 3 software. Include your Dell Remote Console Switch in the
DSView 3 software heterogeneous network environment with the DSView 3
software plug-in. Once a Remote Console Switch is added, you can use the
DSView 3 software for fault management, sessions management, firmware
upgrades, and more.
Virtual Media
Virtual media allows you to view, move, or copy data located on virtual media
to and from any server that is connected to the Remote Console Switch.
Manage remote systems more efficiently by allowing operating system
installation, operating system recovery, hard drive recovery or duplication,
BIOS updating, and server backup.
Virtual media can be connected directly to USB ports on the switch or the
server hosting the on-board web interface browser session. You can open a
virtual media session to a server from the Viewer. The Viewer can be opened
from either the on-board web interface or Remote Console Switch software.
NOTE: To open a virtual media session with a server, the server must first be
connected to a Remote Console Switch using a virtual media capable USB2 SIP
module.
Security
The OSCAR interface allows you to protect your system with a screen saver
password. The screen saver mode engages and access is prohibited until the
appropriate password is entered to reactivate the system. By typing Help in
the password dialog, you are directed to Dell Technical Support.
Recommended usage for the Remote Console Switch is in a datacenter
infrastructure protected by a firewall.
Encryption
The Remote Console Switch supports 128-bit SSL, as well as AES, DES, and
3DES encryption of keyboard/mouse, video, and virtual media sessions.
3 Product Overview
Operation Modes
The OSCAR user interface provides convenient operation modes for easy
system administration of the Remote Console Switch. These modes
(Broadcast, Scan, Switch, and Share) allow you to manage your switching
activities. Chapter 3, "Controlling Your System at the Analog Ports" on
page 36, explains these modes in detail.
Video
The Remote Console Switch provides optimal resolution for analog VGA,
SVGA and XGA video. You can achieve resolutions of 1024 x 768, depending
on the length of cable separating your switch and servers.
Table 1-1. Maximum Resolution Refresh Rate Video Type
720 x 400 @ 70 Hz VGA
640 x 480 @ 60 Hz VGA
640 x 480 @ 72 Hz VESA
640 x 480 @ 75 Hz VESA
800 x 600 @ 56 Hz VESA
800 x 600 @ 60 Hz VESA
800 x 600 @ 70 Hz VESA
800 x 600 @ 75 Hz VESA
1024 x 768 @ 60 Hz VESA
1024 x 768 @ 70 Hz VESA
1024 x 768 @ 75 Hz VESA
FLASH Upgradeable
Upgrade your Remote Console Switch and SIP modules at any time to ensure
you are always running the most current firmware version available. Flash
Upgrades can be initiated through the OSCAR interface, on-board web
interface, or the Serial Console. The Remote Console Switch can be
configured to perform automatic firmware upgrades of SIP modules. See
"Appendix E: FLASH Upgrades" on page 247 for more information.
Product Overview 4
Cascade (Tier) Expansion
The Remote Console Switch features allow you to cascade additional Dell
Console Switches from each of the Analog Rack Interface (ARI) ports on the
switch. The cascaded switches are attached in the same manner as any device.
This additional tier of units allows you to attach up to 512 servers in one
system. See "Adding a Cascade Switch" on page 26.
Remote Console Switch Software Features and Benefits
The Dell™ Remote Console Switch Software is a cross-platform management
application that allows you to view and control the Dell Remote Console
Switch and all attached servers. The cross-platform design ensures
compatibility with most popular operating systems and hardware platforms.
The Remote Console Switch Software provides secure switch-based
authentication, data transfers, and username/password storage. Each switch
handles authentication and access control individually for more decentralized
system control.
The Remote Console Switch Software utilizes Explorer-like navigation with
an intuitive split-screen interface, providing you with a single point of access
for your entire system. From here, you can manage your existing switches,
install a new switch, or launch a video session to a system server. Built-in
groupings such as Servers, Sites, and Folders provide an easy way to select the
units to view. Powerful search and sort capabilities allow you to easily find any
unit.
Easy to Install and Configure
The Remote Console Switch Software is designed for easy installation and
operation. Auto-discovery of managed switches enables you to install new
units in minutes. Wizard-based installation and online help simplify initial
system configuration. The intuitive graphical interface makes managing and
updating switches simple and straightforward.
5 Product Overview
Powerful Customization Capabilities
Tailor the Remote Console Switch Software to fit your specific system needs.
Take advantage of built-in groups or create your own. Customize unit and
field names, and icons for maximum flexibility and convenience. Using
names that are meaningful to you makes it easy to quickly find any system
unit.
Extensive Remote Console Switch Management
The Remote Console Switch Software allows you to add and manage multiple
switches in one system. Once a new switch is installed, you can configure
switch parameters, control and preempt user video sessions, and execute
numerous control functions, such as rebooting and upgrading your switch.
The Remote Console Switch Software is designed to be compatible with the
Dell OpenManage™ IT Assistant Event Viewer, allowing system
administrators to consolidate system event reports.
IPv4 and IPv6 Capabilities
The Remote Console Switch is compatible with systems using either of the
currently used Internet Protocol Versions, IPv4 and IPv6. You can change the
network settings and choose either IPv4 or IPv6 mode via the serial port,
OSCAR interface, or on-board web interface.
LDAP
The Dell Remote Console Switch Software allows permissions for multiple
Remote Console Switches to be managed through a single interface rather
than individually on each Remote Console Switch. For increased security and
efficiency, the LDAP feature eliminates the need to update access
permissions in individual Remote Console Switches by drawing permissions
from a single network-wide authentication source.
The Dell Remote Console Switches can authenticate using the standard
Active Directory schema, or the Dell Extended Schema in order to maximize
compatibility with all of your Dell hardware.
Interoperability with Avocent Products
The Remote Console Switch Software can also be used to manage some
Avocent switches allowing increased flexibility in the management of syste
Product Overview 6
ms.
In addition, the Remote Console Switch Software includes support for
Avocent IQ Modules, expanding the range of server types that can be
managed. The addition of support for Avocent IQ modules means that the
following connections are now supported:
• PS/2 modules (Dell and Avocent modules available)
• USB modules (Dell and Avocent modules available)
• Serial modules (Avocent modules available)
• Sun modules (Avocent modules available)
• PS2M modules (Avocent modules available)
NOTE: Dell SIPs are not supported on directly connected Avocent switches.
7 Product Overview
2
Installation
The Remote Console Switch system includes the Remote Console Switch,
the Remote Console Switch Software, and the on-board web interface. You
may choose to use either the Remote Console Switch Software or the onboard web interface to manage your system. The on-board web interface
manages a single Remote Console Switch and its connections, while the
Remote Console Switch Software can manage multiple switches and their
connections.
If you plan to use the on-board web interface, you do not need to install the
Remote Console Switch Software. If you have previously used the Remote
Console Switch Software, you can migrate the database to the on-board web
interface. See "Migrating Remote Console Switches to the On-board Web
Interface" on page 173.
NOTE: The Remote Console Switch Software can be used to manage some
switches. For more information, please refer to the appropriate installer/user Guide
for your product.
NOTE: Please ensure that all your Remote Console Switches have been upgraded to
their most recent version of Firmware. For information on upgrading a Remote
Console Switch through the OBWI, please see "Upgrading Firmware" on page 159.
Remote Console Switch Quick Setup Checklist
To set up the Remote Console Switch (see the "Remote Console Switch
Installation and Setup" on page 10:
1
Adjust mouse acceleration on each server to
2
Install the Remote Console Switch hardware, and connect a Server
Interface Pod (SIP) or Avocent® IQ module to each server or tiered
switch. Connect each SIP or Avocent IQ module to the Remote Console
Switch with CAT 5 cabling and connect the keyboard, monitor, and mouse
connectors to the analog port of the Remote Console Switch.
Slow
or
None
.
Installation 8
3
Connect a terminal to the configuration (serial) port on the back panel of
the Remote Console Switch and set up network configuration (set network
speed and address type). The IP address can be set here or from the
Remote Console Switch Software. Dell recommends using a static IP
address for ease of configuration.
4
Using the local port configuration, input all server names via the OSCAR
interface.
To set up the Remote Console Switch Software (see "Remote Console Switch
Software Installation and Setup" on page 33):
1
Install the Remote Console Switch Software on each client workstation.
2
From one client workstation, launch the Remote Console Switch Software.
3
Click the
New Remote Console Switch
task button to add the new switch
to the Remote Console Switch Software database. If you configured the IP
address as described above, select
address
, otherwise select
No, the product does not have an IP address
Yes, the product already has an IP
.
Remote Console Switch Software will find the Remote Console Switch
and all SIPs attached to it. These names display in the Explorer.
NOTE: In addition to adding and managing Dell Remote Console Switches using the
Remote Console Switch Software, you can also add and manage some Avocent
switches.
4
Set properties and group servers as desired into locations, sites, or folders
through the
5
Create user accounts through the
Explorer.
on-board web interface
. See "Setting Up
User Accounts" on page 143 for more information.
6
Once one client workstation is set up, select
File - Database - Save
to save
a copy of the database with all the settings.
7
From the second client workstation, click
browse to find the file you have saved. Select the file and click
8
If the local user (via OSCAR) adds, deletes, or renames any SIPs after you
File - Database - Load
and
Load
.
have loaded this file, you can resynchronize your local database with
OSCAR by clicking the
clicking the
9
To control an attached server, select it in the Explorer and click the
Connect Video
Resync
task button to launch a server session in the
Manage Remote Console Switch
button under the
Settings - Server
task button and
tab.
Viewer
.
9 Installation
10
Adjust the resolution (select
Tools - Manual Video Adjust
View - Manual Scale
) of the server video in the
) and quality (select
Viewer
.
Remote Console Switch Installation and Setup
The Remote Console Switch system uses Ethernet networking infrastructure
and TCP/IP protocol to transmit keyboard, video, and mouse information
between operators and connected computers. Although 10BaseT Ethernet or
Gigabit may be used, Dell recommends a dedicated, switched 100BaseT
network.
Getting Started
Before installing your Remote Console Switch, refer to the list below to
ensure you have all items that shipped with the Remote Console Switch, as
well as other items necessary for proper installation.
Supplied with the Remote Console Switch:
• Remote Console Switch unit
• Local country power cord
• 0U mounting bracket
• 1U mounting bracket
• 1U mounting bracket hardware kit
•Serial cable
•Cat5 cable
• Remote Console Switch System User's Guide on CD
• Installation Instructions
• Safety booklet
• Regulatory booklet
Additional items needed:
•One Dell SIP or Avocent IQ module per attached device
• One CAT 5 patch cable per attached device (up to 30 meters)
Optional items:
• Front Access Panel
Installation 10
• Port Expansion Module (PEM)
NOTE: A virtual media session cannot be opened to a server that is connected to a
PEM.
Setting Up Your Network
The Remote Console Switch system uses IP addresses to uniquely identify
the Remote Console Switch units and the computers running Remote
Console Switch Software. The Remote Console Switch supports DHCP and
static IP addressing. (If you are connecting your remote software to the
previous 2161DS, you will need to use BootP instead of DHCP).
Keyboards
USB or PS/2 type keyboards may be connected to the Analog Port of the
Remote Console Switch.
NOTE: The Remote Console Switch also supports the use of multiple keyboards
and multiple mice on the Analog Port. The use of more than one input device
simultaneously, however, may produce unpredictable results.
Rack Mounting Your Remote Console Switch Unit
Obtain a Switch Mounting Bracket Kit (0U or 1U) to rack-mount your
Remote Console Switch unit. Before installing the Remote Console Switch
and other components in the rack, stabilize the rack in a permanent location.
Start rack mounting your equipment at the bottom of the rack, then work to
the top. Avoid uneven loading or overloading of racks.
CAUTION: Before installing systems in a rack, install front and side stabilizers on
stand-alone racks or the front stabilizer on racks joined to other racks. Failure to
install stabilizers accordingly before installing systems in a rack could cause the
rack to tip over, potentially resulting in bodily injury under certain circumstances.
Therefore, always install the stabilizer(s) before installing components in the rack.
To install the 0U switch mounting bracket (shipped as default):
1 Line up the holes of the mounting brackets with the screw holes in the
switch.
2 Fasten the mounting bracket to the switch using the button head socket
cap screws on each side.
11 Installation
3 Mount the switch assembly to the rack by inserting the three mounting
hooks on one side of the bracket into square holes in the vertical rack.
4 Press down until the blue push button pops out and clicks.
Figure 2-1. OU Mounting Bracket Installation
To install the 2161DS-2/4161DS Remote Console Switch 1U four point
switch mounting bracket:
1 Remove the screws on each side of the 1U four-point switch and set
them aside to attach to the front 1U bracket pieces later.
2 Line up the vent holes in the “long side” of the kit’s front brackets with
the vent holes in the switch.
NOTE: The switch vent holes must not be covered by the bracket, which will occur
if installed on the wrong side of the switch.
3 Line up the screw holes in the bracket with the screw holes in the switch.
4 With a Phillips screwdriver, fasten the front mounting brackets to the
switch using two screws on each side.
Installation 12
5 Attach four cage nuts or clip nuts to the rack mounting flange of the
rack cabinet’s front so that the nut is positioned on the inside of the
rack.
6 Mount the switch assembly to the rack cabinet by matching the holes in
the “short side” of each bracket to an appropriate set of matching holes
on your rack cabinet. Next, insert the combination hex head screws
through the slots in the bracket, then the holes in the mounting rail, and
then into the cage nuts or clip nuts.
7 Attach four cage nuts or clip nuts to the rack mounting flange of the
rack cabinet back so that the nut is positioned on the inside of the rack.
8 Slide the rear brackets into the channel of the front brackets adjusting
them to fit the rack depth.
9 Mount the rear bracket to the rack cabinet by matching the holes in the
“short side” of each bracket to an appropriate set of matching holes on
your rack cabinet, ensuring the switch is level within the rack.
10 Insert the combination hex head screws through the slots in the bracket
and the holes in the mounting rail, then into the cage nuts or clip nuts.
Figure 2-2. 2161DS-2/4161DS Remote Console Switch 1U Mounting Bracket Installation
To install the 2321DS Remote Console Switch mounting bracket:
13 Installation
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