Raritan ups ante in device monitoring, management

Raritan Computer last week introduced a keyboard-video-mouse appliance for servers, switches, PBXs and power supplies that IT managers can access remotely via a Web browser.

The Dominion KSX, designed for managing remote offices, allows remote serial console control and remote power control.

Remote KVM capability allows the KSX access to a computer’s BIOS, and IT managers can use it to control Windows, Solaris and Macintosh computers. The Remote Serial console is for monitoring and managing routers, hubs, switches, modems, point-of-sale devices, PBXs and ATMs.

Dominion KSX lets IT managers view equipment operations in real time. From a Web browser, they can troubleshoot, reconfigure, monitor and cycle the power on the devices, and reboot them if necessary. The KSX contains an integrated modem which allows access if the IP network is down. The use of video compression algorithms and frame-grabber technology let KSX perform better than IP-based alternatives, according to the company’s claims.

The KSX can monitor as many as 20 power outlets, cycling power to devices if necessary. It uses 128-bit Secure Sockets Layer communication between devices for secure transfers of data. The appliance, which is rack-mountable, is 1U high. It works over Category-5 UTP or RJ-11 cabling.

The Dominion KSX is immediately available in two models, starting at $3,400 and $4,000, respectively. The KSX400 has four KVM ports, four serial ports and one power-control port. The KSX 880 has eight KVM ports, eight serial ports and one power-control port. Both products work with servers running Windows, Unix and Linux.