Opengear CM8100 Console Server User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Opengear CM8100 Console Server. The CM8100 series is designed to provide secure out-of-band management for network and server infrastructure, enabling remote access and control even during primary network outages.

Key features of the CM8100 Console Server include:

• 16, 32, or 48 port serial console server with Smart Out-of-Band™ capabilities.
• Support for Data Center and Enterprise Network automation with Python and Docker.
• Embedded physical security via TPM 2.0 module.
• Dual power supplies for redundancy and independent monitoring.
• Integrated environmental temperature monitoring.

Setup and Installation

This section guides you through the physical installation and initial setup of your CM8100 Console Server.

Unpacking the Device

Carefully unpack all components from the box. Verify that all items listed in the "What's in the Box" section are present and undamaged.

Image: Front view of the Opengear CM8100 Console Server, showing the red and black chassis, Opengear logo, model number, and dual power inlets on the right side.

Rack Mounting

The CM8100 Console Server is designed for standard 19-inch rack installation.

1. Attach the two rack ears to the sides of the console server using the provided M4 screws.
2. Secure the console server into the rack using the four M5x15mm rack screws and M5mm caged nuts. Ensure the device is level and securely fastened.

Power Connection

The CM8100 features dual power supplies for redundancy.

1. Connect the two A/C power cables to the power inlets on the rear of the console server.
2. Connect the other ends of the power cables to independent power sources for redundancy.
3. Verify that the power indicator LEDs on the front panel illuminate, indicating successful power-up.

Network Connection

Connect the console server to your network for management access.

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your network switch to the primary network port on the console server.
2. (Optional) Connect a second Ethernet cable to the secondary network port for network redundancy.

Serial Port Connection

Connect your managed devices (servers, network devices) to the serial ports on the CM8100.

1. Identify the serial ports on the rear of the console server.
2. Use appropriate serial cables (e.g., the provided CAT5 patch cable with DB9F-RJ45 rollover serial adapter) to connect your devices to the CM8100 serial ports.
3. Note the port numbers for future configuration.

Image: Rear view of the Opengear CM8100 Console Server, displaying various network and serial console ports, along with dual power supply connections.

Operation

This section covers basic operation and initial access to the CM8100 Console Server.

Initial Access

Access the console server for initial configuration via a direct serial connection or network connection.

Serial Console Access

1. Connect a computer to the console server's dedicated console port using a serial cable.
2. Configure your terminal emulation software (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term) with the following settings: 115200 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
3. Power on the CM8100. The boot process will display on your terminal.
4. Log in using the default credentials (refer to the Quick Start Guide for default username and password).

Network Access (Web Interface)

Once the device has an IP address (either DHCP assigned or manually configured via serial console), you can access the web interface.

1. Open a web browser and enter the IP address of the CM8100.
2. Log in using your credentials.
3. From the web interface, you can configure serial ports, network settings, user accounts, and other system parameters.

Managing Connected Devices

The CM8100 allows you to connect to the console of your attached devices.

• Serial Console Access: From the web interface or command-line interface (CLI), select the desired serial port to establish a connection to the attached device.
• Out-of-Band Management: Utilize the Smart OOB™ features to access and manage devices even when the primary network is down.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your CM8100 Console Server.

Firmware Updates

Periodically check the Opengear website for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware current provides new features, bug fixes, and security enhancements.

1. Download the latest firmware image from the official Opengear support portal.
2. Access the CM8100 web interface.
3. Navigate to the firmware update section (typically under System > Firmware).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to upload and install the new firmware. Do not power off the device during the update process.

Cleaning

Keep the console server clean to prevent dust buildup, which can affect cooling.

• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the device.
• Ensure ventilation openings are clear of obstructions.
• Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the device.

Environmental Considerations

Ensure the operating environment meets the recommended conditions.

• Maintain proper airflow around the device.
• Keep the device within specified temperature and humidity ranges.

Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with the CM8100 Console Server.

No Power

• Symptom: Power indicator LEDs are off, device does not respond.
• Solution: Verify that both A/C power cables are securely connected to the device and to active power outlets. Check power sources and circuit breakers.

Cannot Access Web Interface

• Symptom: Web browser cannot connect to the CM8100 IP address.
• Solution:
  1. Verify the console server has power and is running.
  2. Confirm the network cable is properly connected to an active network port.
  3. Check the IP address configuration of the CM8100 (via serial console if necessary).
  4. Ensure your computer is on the same network or has a route to the CM8100's IP address.
  5. Temporarily disable any firewalls on your computer to rule out interference.

No Serial Console Connection to Managed Device

• Symptom: Unable to establish a serial connection to a device connected to the CM8100.
• Solution:
  1. Verify the serial cable connection between the CM8100 port and the managed device.
  2. Ensure the correct serial cable type (e.g., rollover, straight-through) is used for the specific device.
  3. Check the serial port configuration on the CM8100 (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits, flow control) matches the settings of the managed device.
  4. Confirm the managed device is powered on and functioning correctly.

Specifications

What's in the Box

The following items are included with your Opengear CM8100 Console Server:

• CM8100 Console Server
• Rack Mount Kit
• 2 x Rack Ears with Six M4 Screws
• 4 x M5mm Caged Nuts
• 4 x M5x15mm Rack Screws
• 1 x CAT5 Patch Cable 6'
• 1 x DB9F-RJ45 Rollover Serial Adapter
• 2 x A/C Power Cables
• Quick Start Guide
• Lighthouse Insert