User's Manual

1
Chapter 1
Introduction
Overview
The CN8600 is a cost-efficient over-IP device that provides secure KVM
(keyboard, video and mouse) server management over an IP network. It allows
operators to monitor and access their computers at BIOS-level from remote
locations using a web GUI, a browser-based Windows or Java client, or a
Windows or Java based application program. It also allows the IP address to be
easily configured from the local console.
The CN8600 supports redundant Network Internet Card (NIC) to ensure
connectivity. It connects to the Internet using industry standard Cat 5e/6 cables,
then uses a custom KVM cable to connect to a local KVM switch or server. It
is compatible with ATEN DVI KVM switches and LCD consoles, such as the
CS1768 and CL6700.
Because the CN8600 uses TCP/IP for its communications protocol, the server
or KVM switch to which it is connected can be accessed from any computer on
the Internet – whether that computer is located down the hall, down the street,
or half-way around the world. Operators at remote locations connect to the
CN8600 via its IP address. Once a connection has been established and
authorization granted, the remote computer can exchange keyboard, video and
mouse signals with the server (or servers on a KVM switch installation), as if
an administrator were physically present and working on the equipment
directly.
A mini USB port in the rear panel serves as a Virtual Media USB port, as well
as a Laptop USB Console (LUC) port. No additional monitor, keyboard or
mouse is required on the local site during routine maintenance – simply use a
laptop that utilizes the LUC feature to access a computer on-site for easy
management.
The CN8600’s Virtual Media function allows a user to perform diagnostic
testing, file transfer, and OS/application patches from a remote console. There
is no need to physically load a CD directly to the server to perform data-related
tasks – conveniently and efficiently troubleshoot and resolve problems at the
BIOS level from anywhere.