Western Telematic CMS-16 User Manual

WTI Part No. 13027

Rev. C

CMS-16

Console Management Switch

Firmware Version 2.00 and Higher

User's Guide

5 Sterling

(949) 586-9950

Fax: (949) 583-9514

Irvine

Toll Free: 1-800-854-7226

California 92618

http://www.wti.com

Warnings and Cautions:

No Serviceable Parts Inside; Authorized Service Personnel Only

Do not attempt to repair or service this device yourself. Internal components must be serviced by authorized personnel only.

Shock Hazard - Do Not Enter Choc Hasard - N'entrent Schocke Hazard - Test Nicht Betrete Otro Hazard - Do Non Entrano

Nameplate Power Warning

This device should only be operated with the type of power source indicated on the instrument nameplate. If you are not sure of the type of power service available, consult your local power company.

Connect unit only to a properly measured supply. Use only three wire cord which is provided with the unit.

Abouchent unité qu'aux convenable mesura approvisionnement. Usage qu'à trois fil corde laquel est approvisionna avec la unité.

Anschliesse einheit nur bis ein angebracht gemessen nachschub. Gebrauch nur drei draht schnur welche ist verschaffen mit das einheit.

Connect unità solo a un proper misurata fornirle. Adoperano solo tre wire spago quale è fornii con gli unità.

Battery Replacement

This device may include a lithium battery powered circuit. If the battery is incorrectly replaced or mistreated, there is a danger of explosion and a risk of personal injury. Do not attempt to recharge the battery, disassemble it, immerse it in water, or dispose of it in a fire. Battery replacement may only be performed by authorized service personnel.

CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Warnings and Cautions

Rack Mount Installation

When installing this device in an instrument rack, the following factors must be accounted for:

1. Enclosed Racks: Enclosed racks must provide adequate ventilation. Make certain that the rack is not overly crowded and note that each unit in the rack generates its own heat. An enclosed rack should have louvered sides and a fan to circulate cooling air. The maximum temperature for the equipment in this environment is 45° C.

When mounting the unit in an enclosed rack with a ventilation fan at the top of the rack, note that excessive heat generated by devices at the bottom of the rack can be drawn upward and into the ventilation slots of units located at the top. Make certain to provide adequate ventilation for equipment installed at the bottom of the rack.

2. Open Racks: Make certain that the rack frame does not block the ventilation slots on the instrument cover. If the device is installed on sliders, check the unit when seated all the way into the rack to make certain that ventilation slots are not blocked.

Ventilation

Slots in the instrument cover are provided to allow ventilation for heat dissipation. To ensure safe, reliable operation, these openings must not be covered or blocked.

Disconnect Power

If any of the following events are noted, immediately disconnect the unit from the outlet and contact qualified service personnel:

1. If the power cord becomes frayed or damaged.

2. If liquid has been spilled into the device or if the device has been exposed to rain or water.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Unit Description

2.1. Front Panel

2.2. Back Panel

3. Getting Started

3.1. Communication Parameters

3.2. Apply Power to the CMS

3.3. System SetUp Ports

3.4. Connecting your PC to the CMS

3.5. Communicating with the CMS Unit

4. Hardware Installation

4.1. Connecting Power to the CMS Unit

4.1.1. AC Powered Units

4.1.2. DC Powered Units

4.2. Configure Option Switches .................................4-2

4.2.1. Default Baud Rate (Sw1, Sw2, Sw3) .......................4-2

4.2.2. Default Handshake (Sw4, Sw5) ..........................4-3

4.2.3. Default Response Message Format (Sw6) ....................4-3

4.2.4. Default Command Echo (Sw7) ..........................4-3

4.3. Initialize Unit to Default Settings .............................4-3

4.4. Connecting Devices to the CMS ..............................4-4

4.5. Application Example.....................................4-4

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3-1 3-1 3-2 3-2 3-2

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4-1 4-1 4-1

5. Configuration ............................................5-1

5.1. Access to the CMS Command Mode ............................5-1

5.2. System SetUp Ports .....................................5-2

5.3. Password Functions

5.3.1. The Supervisor Password

5.3.2. The Port Passwords

5.4. Defining the Site ID and Supervisor Password

5.5. Port Configuration

5.5.1. Configuration Conventions

5.5.2. Port Modes

5.5.3. RS232 Port Configuration Menus

5.5.4. Network Port Configuration Menu

5.5.5. Implementing IP Security

5.6. Copying Parameters to All Ports

5.7. Save User Selected Parameters

6. The Status Screens

6.1. The Port Status Screen (/S)

6.2. The Port Diagnostics Screen (/SD)

6.3. The Network Status Screen (/SN)

6.4. The Port Parameters Screens (/W)

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Table of Contents

7. Operation

7.1. Any-to-Any Mode

7.1.1. Port Connection and Disconnection

7.1.2. Defining Hunt Groups

7.2. Passive Mode

7.3. Buffer Mode

7.3.1. Reading Data from Buffer Mode Ports

7.3.2. Port Buffers

7.4. Modem Mode

8. Saving and Restoring Configuration Parameters

8.1. Sending Parameters to a File

8.2. Restoring Saved Parameters

9. Upgrading CMS Firmware

10. Command Reference Guide

10.1. Command Conventions

10.2. Command Response

10.3. Command Summary ....................................10-3

10.4. Command Set ........................................10-4

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7.1.1.1. Connecting Ports

7.1.1.2. Disconnecting Ports

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Appendices

A. RS232 Port Interface......................................Apx-1

B. Specifications ..........................................Apx-2

C. Customer Service ........................................Apx-3

List of Figures

2.1. Instrument Front Panel

2.2. Instrument Back Panel

3.1. The Supervisor Level Help Screen

3.2. The Port Status Screen (Defaults Shown)

4.1. Terminal Block Assembly (DC Units Only)

4.2. CMS Application Example (Not to Scale)

5.1. Port Configuration Menu (Port 2 Shown)

5.2. Port Parameters Menu (Modem Mode)

5.3. Network Parameters Menu (Supervisor Mode Only)

5.4. IP Security Menu

5.5. The Copy Port Parameters Menu

6.1. The Port Status Screen (Supervisor Mode, Defaults Shown)

6.2. The Port Diagnostics Screen (Sample Values Shown)

6.3. The Network Status Screen

6.4. The Port Parameters Screen (RS232 Port Shown)

6.5. The Port Parameters Screen (Network Port Shown) A.1. RS232 Port Interface

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1. Introduction

The CMS-16 Console Port Management Switch provides secure, in-band and/or out-of-band access to RS232 console ports and maintenance ports on UNIX servers, routers and other network equipment. System Administrators can access remote devices in order to change configuration parameters, connect users to restricted ports, collect buffered data, and perform a variety of other administrative functions.

Versatile Connectivity

Up to 16 different devices can be connected to the CMS without the need to select a common baud rate or parity. Each port can be individually configured for specific baud rates, parity, handshaking, and various other parameters and options.

Easy Set-Up and Operation

Configuration of the CMS is simple. A menuing system is used to select parameters, and enable options. The CMS can easily adapt to the requirements of almost any data communications application.

Limited Command Access

The CMS is ideal for situations that require limited access to important commands. Two security levels allow each port to function as a Supervisor Port or User Port, depending on the password entered at login. Supervisor Ports are allowed to change configuration, display status, and connect to any other port; User ports are only allowed to connect to the ports provided by their password. Each individual port can be assigned its own unique, user-defined password, up to sixteen characters long.

Non-Volatile Memory

If AC power to the unit is lost or interrupted, the CMS’s non-volatile memory will retain user-defined parameters and port connections.

Modem and Telnet Communication

The CMS can be controlled by a local PC that communicates with the unit via cable, or controlled remotely via external modem or telnet connection. Your terminal emulation or telnet program is used to send commands to connect ports or display status.

Configuration Backup

Once you have configured the CMS to fit your application, parameters and options can be saved to an ASCII text file on your PC. This allows you to quickly restore user-selected parameters if the unit configuration is accidentally altered or deleted. Saved parameters can also be uploaded to other CMS units. This allows rapid set-up when several units will be configured with identical or similar parameters.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Introduction

Typographic Conventions

^ (e.g. ^X) Indicates a control character. For example, the text "^X" (Control X)

indicates the [Ctrl] key and the [X] key must be pressed simultaneously.

COURIER FONT Indicates characters typed on the keyboard. For example, /E or /P 02.

[Bold Font] Text set in bold face and enclosed in square brackets, indicates a specific

key. For example, [Enter] or [Esc].

<> Indicates required keyboard entries. For Example: /P <n>.

[] Indicates optional keyboard entries. For Example: /W [n].

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2. Unit Description

2.1. Front Panel

Figure 2.1: Instrument Front Panel

CLEAR: Restarts the CMS operating program without changing user-selected parameter

settings or breaking port connections.

ON: Lights when AC Power is applied.

SET: Used to Initialize the CMS to defaults specified by the SetUp Switches. To

initialize, press and hold both the SET and CLEAR buttons, release only the CLEAR button, wait for the Port LEDs to flash, and then release the SET button.

Notes:

• During initialization, all port LEDs will flash ON three times.

• During initialization, all command-selected parameters will be cleared, and the CMS will revert to the default parameters specified by the Option Switches.

RDY: (Ready) Flashes to indicate unit is operational.

NET: Lights when a Network Connection is present.

ACTIVITY LEDs: Light to indicate data activity at the corresponding port.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Unit Description

2.2. Back Panel

Figure 2.2: Instrument Back Panel

Network Port: An RJ45 Ethernet port for connection to your TCP/IP network. To

communicate via network, you must first specify the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway Address as described in Section 5.5.4.

Power Cable Receptacle

Power Switch

RS232 PORTS: For connection to console ports on target devices. Standard DB9

connectors configured as DTE ports. The RS232 ports are similar to a serial port on a PC. When connecting a modem, use a standard serial cable. When connecting a PC or other DTE device use a null modem cable.

• Ports 1 and 2 are System Setup Ports, which are used for communication during set-up and configuration. Note that Supervisor Level command access cannot be disabled at these ports.

• Ports 1 and 2 can either be connected to a PC or modem. Connection to a modem allows control by a remote PC.

Option Switches: A bank of eight DIP switches, which are used to set the default baud

rate, handshake, message type, and duplex mode. Option Switch functions are described in Section 4.2.

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3. Getting Started

This section provides a brief overview of basic CMS capabilities, and describes simple tests that can be used to determine if the unit is operating properly.

3.1. Communication Parameters

The Option Switches, located on the instrument back panel, select default operating settings. Switch functions are summarized in Section 4.2, and on a label on the CMS unit.

When the unit is shipped from the factory, the Option Switches are set for 9600 baud, 8 BitsNo Parity, RTS/CTS handshaking, verbose response, and command echo ON (all switches Down).

For this overview only, use the default switch configuration. Set your communications program (e.g. ProComm installing the unit, please refer to Section 5 for instructions on selecting faster communication speeds and other parameters.

9600 Baud

RTS/CTS Handshaking

Full Duplex (Command Echo ON)

8 Bits, No Parity, 1 Stop Bit

Using Other Parameters for this Overview (Optional):

If desired, the CMS can match the parameters used by your communications program. Refer to Section 4.2 and configure Option Switches accordingly. After changing the switches, reset the CMS; press and hold both the SET and CLEAR buttons, release only CLEAR, wait for the Port LEDs to flash, and then release the SET button.

Note: If Option Switches are changed, new settings will not take effect until the unit is reset.

) to the parameters listed below. After completing this overview and

3.2. Apply Power to the CMS

Connect the CMS to an appropriate power source. Press the Power Switch ON. The ON LED should light, and the RDY LED should begin to flash. When connecting power to a DC unit, please refer to the additional instructions in Section 4.1.

CAUTION: This device should only be operated with the type of power source indicated on the instrument nameplate. If you are not sure of the type of power service available, please consult your local power company.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Getting Started

3.3. System SetUp Ports

In order to ensure access to important command functions, Ports 1 and 2 are designated as System SetUp Ports; the Supervisor Mode cannot be disabled at these ports. Ports 1 and 2 will always allow password protected access to all CMS command functions, even when the unit has been reset to the default state.

Therefore, Ports 1 and 2 are generally used for communication during initial set-up and configuration, or after the unit has been reinitialized (reset) to default parameters.

Note: For more information on System SetUp Port capabilities, please refer to Section 5.2.

3.4. Connecting your PC to the CMS

The CMS can either be controlled by a local PC that communicates via cable, controlled via external modem, or controlled via TCP/IP network. For this overview, a local PC running ProComm (or a similar communications program), will be cable connected to Port 1.

Note: Communication via Modem (Optional): If desired, this overview can also be performed via modem. Section 4.4 describes the procedure for connecting a modem to the CMS.

1. Attach a standard null modem cable to your PC COM port. Make certain to connect to the COM port used by your communications program.

2. Connect the other end of the cable to CMS Port 1. For a description of the port interface, please refer to Appendix A.

3.5. Communicating with the CMS Unit

Perform the following procedure to access the CMS Command Mode, explore basic features, and check for proper operation.

1. Start your communications program (e.g. ProComm) and set it to 9600 bps, 8 bits, no parity, 1 stop bit.

2. Press [Enter] to access the CMS Command Mode.

a) In order for [Enter] to be recognized as a wake-up command, it must be pressed

without any characters preceding it.

b) If you have already hit other keys, press [Enter] twice. The "CMS>" prompt should

appear.

c) (Optional) If you are performing this overview via modem, please refer to Section 5.1

for additional instructions.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Getting Started

COMMAND MENU:

DISPLAY CONFIGURATION /S[P] Port Status /F System Parameters /SD Port Diagnostics /P [n] Port Parameters /W[P] [n] Port Parameters (Who) /N Network Parameters /J Site ID /I Default and Test /SN[P] Network Status /UF Upgrade Firmware /H Command Menu (Help) /CP Copy Port Parameters

+--------------------+

/D, /E, /I, /T commands: add /Y to bypass "Sure (y/n)?"

Figure 3.1: The Supervisor Level Help Screen

3. The Port Status Screen will be displayed, followed by the "CMS>" prompt, indicating that you have successfully accessed the Command Mode. If the "CMS>" prompt is not displayed, this may indicate a communication problem. Check the following:

a) Cable Connection: Check the connection between the CMS and the PC. Make

certain the cable connectors are firmly seated.

b) Communication Parameters: Make certain the CMS and ProComm are using the

same baud rate.

4. Help Screen: Type /H [Enter] to display the Supervisor Level Help Screen (Figure 3.1).

5. Port Status Screen: Type /S [Enter] to display the Port Status Screen (Figure 3.2), which summarizes conditions at all Ports. The various fields of the Port Status Screen are explained in Section 6.1.

6. Port Connection: The CMS can perform two different types of port connections; Resident Connections and Third Party Connections.

a) Resident Connection: Your resident port (e.g. Port 1) issues a /C command to

connect to a second port.

i. To connect Port 1 to Port 2, type /C 2 [Enter]. While Port 1 is connected, the

CMS will not recognize commands issued at Port 1. However, the unit will recognize a Resident Disconnect Sequence issued at Port 1 or Port 2.

ii. Issue the Resident Disconnect Sequence (Logoff Sequence); type

[Enter]+++[Enter].

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Getting Started

PORT STATUS: Version 2.00, Site ID: WESTERN TELEMATIC INC.

-----+------------------+------------------+--------+--------+-------------01 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 02 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 03 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 04 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 05 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 06 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 07 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 08 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0

||||| 09 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 10 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 11 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 12 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 13 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 14 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 15 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0 16 | (undefined) | (undefined) | Free | Any | 0

Enter /H for command menu.

Figure 3.2: The Port Status Screen (Defaults Shown)

b) Third Party Connection: Your resident port (e.g. Port 1) issues a /C command to

create a connection between two other ports.

i. To connect Port 2 to Port 3, type /C23[Enter].

ii. While Ports 2 and 3 are connected, Port 1 will still recognize CMS commands.

Type /S [Enter] to display the Port Status Screen. The "STATUS" column should now list Ports 2 and 3 as connected, and Port 1 as "Free".

iii. Issue a Third Party Disconnect command to disconnect Ports 2 and 3; type /D 2

[Enter]. The unit will display the "Are you Sure (y/n)?" prompt. Type y and press [Enter] to disconnect.

iv. Type /S [Enter] to display the Port Status Screen. The "STATUS" column

should now list Ports 2 and 3 as "Free".

7. Site I.D. Message: If desired, the Site I.D. Message can be used to indicate the name or

location of the unit. Note that the Site I.D. cannot include double quotes (”).

a) Type /F and press [Enter]. When the System Parameters menu appears, type 1 and

press [Enter]. A prompt will appear. Key in the desired text (up to 32 characters) and press [Enter].

b) To display the Site I.D., type /J [Enter].

c) Note that the Site I.D. will be cleared when the unit is initialized.

This completes the introductory overview of the CMS. Please proceed to Sections 4 and 5 for complete installation and configuration procedures.

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4. Hardware Installation

4.1. Connecting Power to the CMS Unit

The CMS is available in both AC and DC powered versions. When connecting AC or DC power to the CMS, proceed as follows:

4.1.1. AC Powered Units

Plug the supplied power cable into the receptacle on the CMS back panel and then connect the power cable to a grounded AC outlet. The AC powered version of the CMS features a self adjusting power supply that automatically adapts to power supplies between 90 and 250 VAC.

4.1.2. DC Powered Units

The DC terminal block features two bus inputs as shown in Figure 4.1 below. This allows the user to connect only one DC power source, or connect two DC power sources where the second source functions as a backup.

When connecting the CMS to your DC power source, first remove the clear protective cover from the DC terminal block, attach the wires from the -48V DC power source to the screw terminals, connect your ground line to the labeled ground screw, and then replace the protective cover.

Figure 4.1: Terminal Block Assembly (DC Units Only)

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Hardware Installation

4.2. Configure Option Switches

When the CMS is shipped from the factory, the Option Switches are configured for 9600 baud, 8 Bits-No Parity, RTS/CTS handshaking, verbose command response, and command echo ON (all switches Down). These settings are compatible with most applications. If the default settings are not compatible with your application, change the switch settings as follows.

The Option Switches should be configured to match the parameters your control device will use when communicating with the CMS. This will ensure access to command functions, even if the unit is initialized to default parameters.

Notes:

If the Option Switch configuration is changed, new parameters will not take effect

• until the unit is initialized as described in Section 4.3.

Operating parameters (baud rate, parity, etc.) can be selected for each port using

• the /P command as described in Section 5.5. The /P command can select different parameters for each CMS port.

When the CMS is initialized, parameters will return to settings specified by the

• Option Switches.

4.2.1. Default Baud Rate (Sw1, Sw2, Sw3)

Option Switches one through three select the default baud rate for all CMS RS232 Ports. The default baud rate must match the rate your control device will use when communicating with the CMS. If the control device will communicate via modem, select a default baud rate that is compatible with the modem.

123

D D D 9600*

UDD300

D U D 1200

U U D 2400

D D U 19.2K

U D U 38.4K

D U U 57.6K

U U U 115.2K

* = Factory Setting

Default Baud Rate

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Hardware Installation

4.2.2. Default Handshake (Sw4, Sw5)

The default handshake format must match the format your control device will use when communicating with the CMS. Option Switches 4 and 5 can select RTS/CTS (hardware), XON/XOFF, Both or None.

Switch

D D RTS/CTS *

U D XON/XOFF

D U Both

U U None

Default Handshake

* = Factory Setting

4.2.3. Default Response Message Format (Sw6)

When commands are invoked, the CMS can respond with either verbose (English text) or terse (numeric / abbreviated) messages. Response messages are summarized in Section 10.2. After installation, the /P command can also set the response format to "none" (Quiet Mode). When Quiet Mode is selected, the unit will not send response messages.

Switch 6 Default Response Message Type

D Verbose (English Text) *

U Terse (abbreviated / numeric)

* = Factory Setting

4.2.4. Default Command Echo (Sw7)

Switch Seven enables or disables the Command Echo. When enabled, characters sent to the CMS will be echoed back to the control device.

Switch 7 Default Command Echo

D Enable*

U Disable

* = Factory Setting

4.3. Initialize Unit to Default Settings

If Option Switch settings are changed, new parameters will not take effect until the CMS is initialized.

CAUTION: After initialization, the CMS will revert to the parameters specified by the Option Switches. Any command-selected parameters will be lost.

1. Simultaneously press the SET and CLEAR buttons, located on the face of the CMS.

2. Release the CLEAR button, wait for the Port LEDs to flash, and then release the SET button.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Hardware Installation

4.4. Connecting Devices to the CMS

1. Access the Command Mode.

2. Determine which port will be used for connection to the new device (e.g. Port 3).

3. Check Buffer: Type /S [Enter] to display the Port Status Screen. Check the "Buffer Count" column, which lists the amount of data stored in the buffer for each port.

a) If the Port Status Screen shows data stored in the buffer for the desired port, type /E

xx [Enter] to clear the buffer (where xx is the desired port number).

b) Note that cleared data cannot be recovered.

4. Use an appropriate DB9 cable to connect the RS232 serial port on the device to a DB9 port on the CMS.

a) External Modems and other DCE Devices: Use a standard serial modem cable.

b) PCs and other DTE Devices: Use a standard null modem cable.

5. Select communication parameters for each port as described in Section 5.

4.5. Application Example

The example in Figure 4.2 shows one of many possible installation configurations for the CMS. In this example, ports have been configured as follows:

· Network Port: The Network Port allows telnet access by remote Supervisors and/or

Users. When a telnet connection is established, the CMS will prompt the caller to enter a password. If the Supervisor Password is entered, the CMS will recognize Supervisor Level Commands; if a Port password is entered, the CMS will only recognize User Level Commands. Supervisors are allowed to adjust port configuration, connect to any port, or review unit status. Users are only permitted to review status and connect to ports that are allowed by their Port password.

Port 1 (System SetUp Port): This port has been left open in order to permit on-site service personnel to access the Command Mode without disrupting other ports. Since Port 1 is a System SetUp Port, the service tech is allowed password protected access to Supervisor Level commands, and is able to connect to any port, change configuration, or display unit status.

Port 2 (Modem Port): An external modem has been installed at Port 2. This port has also been configured for Modem Mode, which allows definition of a modem reset string, initialization string, and hang-up string. When a caller contacts the CMS unit via modem, a password prompt will be displayed. If the Supervisor Password is entered, the CMS will permit access to Supervisor Level Commands; if a Port password is entered, the CMS will only recognize User Level Commands. Supervisors are allowed to adjust port configuration, connect to any port, or review unit status. Users are only allowed to review status and connect to the ports allowed by their Port Password.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Hardware Installation

Figure 4.2: CMS Application Example (Not to Scale)

· Ports 5, 7, and 9 (User Ports): The Port Password “COLOCATION1” has been assigned

to these three ports. If the CMS is contacted via the Network Port or Modem Port, and this password is entered at log in, User’s will only be able to review status and connect to the devices attached to Ports 5, 7, and 9.

Ports 12, 14, and 16 (User Ports): The Port Password “COLOCATION2” has been assigned to these three ports. If the CMS is contacted via the Network Port or Modem Port, and this password is entered at log in, User’s will only be able to review status and connect to the devices attached to Ports 12, 14, and 16.

Note that in this example, Ports 3 through 16 could also be a mixture of ports connected to external modems, and ports connected to devices such as file servers or archives. This would allow remote users to dial in and access a specific file server or archive after entering a valid Port Password at log in.

4-5

5. Configuration

5.1. Access to the CMS Command Mode

When the CMS Command Mode is active, commands can be invoked to select parameters, and connect or disconnect ports.

Note: Command Mode cannot be accessed from a Buffer Mode Port, Passive Mode Port, or any port that is currently connected to another CMS port.

1. Start your communications program (e.g. ProComm ProComm are set for the same parameters (e.g. baud, parity, etc.).

2. Access the Command Mode.

a) Local Access: To access the command mode from a local PC that is connected to the

CMS via cable, press [Enter].

i. If you have already hit other keys, press [Enter] twice. There must be no other

characters preceding [Enter].

ii. If the Supervisor Password has been defined, the password prompt will be

displayed. Key in your Supervisor or Port password and press [Enter]. The "CMS>" prompt will appear.

). Make certain the CMS and

b) Modem Access: To access the command mode via modem, proceed as follows:

i. Dial the number for the external modem connected to the CMS.

ii. If you have defined the Supervisor Password, a prompt will be displayed. Key in

your Supervisor or Port password and press [Enter]. If the Supervisor Password has not been defined, just press [Enter]. The "CMS>" prompt will appear.

c) Network Access: In order to access the CMS command mode via network, the IP

Address, Subnet Mask and Gateway Address must first be defined. Therefore, network access is not available during initial configuration.

After Network Port Parameters are assigned as described in Section 5.5.3, the user may connect to the CMS via network using the following procedure:

i. Telnet to the CMS’s IP Address. For example, if the IP Address is “192.1.1.1”,

on a UNIX system, the Telnet command would be invoked as follows:

$ telnet 192.1.1.1 [Enter]

ii. Note that if the Telnet connection to the CMS is refused, this probably means

that the network port is busy, or that the IP Security feature (see Section 5.5.5) has denied the connection.

iii. If the Supervisor Password has been defined, the password prompt will be

displayed. Key in your Supervisor or Port password and press [Enter]. The CMS will display the Port Status Screen, and then the "CMS>" prompt will appear.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Configuration

5.2. System SetUp Ports

As discussed previously in Section 3 of this User’s Guide, Ports 1 and 2 are designated as System SetUp Ports. Ports 1 and 2 will always permit password protected access to Supervisor Level command functions, even when the unit is reset to default parameters.

In order to ensure that access to command functions is always available, Ports 1 and 2 cannot be configured as Buffer Mode or Passive Mode Ports. Buffer and Passive Mode Ports are not able to access the Command Mode. In addition, Ports 1 and 2 always permit password protected access to Supervisor Level commands; the Supervisor Mode cannot be disabled at these two ports.

5.3. Password Functions

The CMS features two different types of passwords; the Supervisor Password and the Port (User) Passwords. The Supervisor Password allows access to configuration commands, and the Port Passwords allow users to create connections between specific ports or view port configuration parameters.

5.3.1. The Supervisor Password

The Supervisor Password allows access to higher level CMS configuration commands, which administrators can use to select communication parameters, set up IP Security, assign port access rights, and perform other system management tasks.

Notes:

• If the Supervisor Password is not defined, then Supervisor Level commands will

be available to all ports, and port access and configuration functions will not be password protected. In order to prevent user ports from changing configuration, or connecting to restricted ports, the Supervisor Password must be defined.

• If the Supervisor Password is defined, the CMS unit will display a prompt when

you attempt to access command mode. Any RS232 port that has not been assigned a Port Password, can then only be accessed using the Supervisor Password.

•

If the CMS is reset to default parameters, all ports will revert to the default state, where Supervisor Level commands are available to all ports, without a password prompt.

•

When defining a Supervisor Password, it is strongly recommended that you record the password for future use. If you forget or lose your Supervisor Password, you will not be able to access Supervisor Level Commands. In this case, the only way to access the Supervisor Mode, is to reinitialize the CMS to default values as described in Section 4.2.

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CMS Series - Console Management Switches, User's Guide Configuration

After the Supervisor Password has been defined (via the System Parameters menu), the CMS will display a password prompt whenever you attempt to access the command mode. If the correct Supervisor Password is entered, the CMS command mode then starts up in Supervisor Mode. Supervisor Level commands are summarized in Section 10.3 of this User’s Guide.

Normally, the Supervisor Password can be entered at any port in order to gain access to Supervisor Level commands. If you wish to completely deny a port’s access to Supervisor Mode (even with the Supervisor Password), the Port Parameters menus (/P and /N) can be used to disable the Supervisor Mode at ports 3 through 16 and the Network Port. The Supervisor Mode cannot be disabled at System SetUp Ports 1 and 2.

5.3.2. The Port Passwords

The Port Passwords (or User Passwords) allow system administrators to restrict access to a specific group of ports. When the CMS command mode is accessed with a Port Password, users may only connect to the RS232 Ports to which they have been granted access, and review configuration parameters for those ports. Port Passwords do not grant access to CMS configuration commands.

The port configuration menus are used to assign a Port Password to each individual port. In order to allow a Port Password to grant access to several CMS ports, the same password is assigned to each port to which the user will be allowed access.

For example, if the Port Password “test” is assigned to ports 3, 4, and 6, then when “test” is entered at the Password Prompt, the user will only be able to connect to ports 3, 4, and 6, and will only be able to view parameters for ports 3, 4, and 6.

If desired, all CMS ports can function as either a Supervisor Port or a User Port, depending on which password is entered at login. However, if you wish to prevent a port from being able to access the Supervisor Mode at all (even with the Supervisor Password), the Supervisor Mode can be disabled at the RS232 Ports and the Network Port using the Port Configuration menus as described in Section 5.5. Note however, that the Supervisor Mode cannot be disabled at Ports 1 and 2; these ports are designated as SetUp Ports, and are always allowed password protected access to Supervisor Level commands.

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Western Telematic CMS-16 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual