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IE
Text Size option
In IE it's possible to change the size of the text with View - Text Size, Is there
any css code or html code that will disable this option?
Displaying
a sequence of photos...
I've been trying to display a sequence of photos that change from one to the other
on my homepage. As I'm very much an amatuer and still learning, I was advised
that the best way for me to do this was to find what I'm looking to do from another
site and copy the code into my own.
GPG
to encrypt data
Running Apache 1.33 on FreeBSD 5.4. I would like to be able to encrypt data going
into a MySQL database from PHP scripts. (PHP 5.0.3 and MySQL 4.1.x ) I have heard
that this can be done with gpg; but have never seen an example.
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08.15.05
Top 5 Reasons Why CAT5 KVM Switches
Solve Common KVM Switch Limitations
 By Robert
Pavlokovic
Simplifying server rack environments by introducing a CAT5 KVM to help ease server
cabinet clutter is an example of how beneficial UTP cabling can be.
This article will analyze additional techniques of how to simplify KVM management
at the rack and in busy operation centers by using CAT5 UTP cabling.
CAT5-, 6- and 7-Supported KVM Solutions
Our engineers often run across operation centers with pre-installed UTP cabling
within the walls, server cabinets and raised flooring. Many times over, pre-determined
UTP cabling forces data center managers to purchase and install a KVM solution
that does not necessarily meet their needs in justification to comply with established
UTP cabling. Building code for new and old data center structures are repeatedly
out of the IT manager's control; consequently, inadequate CAT5 KVM solutions are
regularly rolled out.
KVM manufacturers are beginning to provide KVM solutions that will support any
type of UTP cabling that already exists within data centers - CAT5, 5e, 6 and
7. In the long run, all UTP variants should be supported with evolving KVM specifications,
thus, valuable time and expense for data center and IT managers will be saved.
If at all possible, check with the technical specifications of the targeted KVM
solution before installing UTP cabling or deciding on a CAT5 KVM switch.
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Implementation
Plug and play is a term often used in the KVM industry which signifies ease of
implementation. Most analog-based CAT5 KVM switches install into server rack environments
without much trouble. The hardest procedure regarding CAT5 KVM switch set-up is
booting the attached servers in order for the KVM and target computers to register
the required Computer Interface Modules. Other than booting servers, basic KVM
switching and advanced KVM management details are easily programmable and will
take minutes to configure.
Connecting UTP cabling from host computers to the KVM switch takes no time at
all to employ. Though, routing CAT5 cabling through server rack cable management
systems could take a bit of pre-planning before the actual CAT5 connections between
hosts and KVM are terminated.
Costs of Implementing CAT5 KVM Switches
CAT5 KVM Switches can cost more than basic non-CAT5 KVM Switches; however, added
features and benefits associated with CAT5 KVM switch varieties regularly out-perform
comparable non-CAT5 KVM versions. An exception to this rule is the Minicom Smart
CAT5 8- and 16-port KVM switches. Bundling a Smart CAT5 16-port switch and all
required dongles often prices out lower than comparable 16-port KVM switches plus
cables.
Implementing a CAT5 KVM solution requires not only the KVM switch but additional
hardware such as Computer Interface Modules or Dongles are mandatory. Dongles
replace older style 3-in-1 KVM cables and can cost anywhere from $60 to $275 per
unit. These tiny devices connect to each target computer's keyboard, mouse and
video monitor ports and operate as CAT5 or RJ-45 converters. A CAT5 cable will
then attach the two components together to create a communications pathway. Distance
between the switch and dongles is what separates CAT5 KVM switches and standard
KVMs apart. Higher-end CAT5 KVM switches, such as the Raritan Paragon II, will
permit users to extend their console up to 1000 feet away from target computers.
For an even comparison, extending KVM signals over the same distance with a standard
KVM cable is not remotely possible.
Multi-platform Support via CAT5
Standard non-CAT5 based KVM switches often times enough only support PC and UNIX
based platforms with PS2 and VGA connections. Multi-platform machines such as
Sun, Mac, or Serial can connect to standard KVM switches; although, costly adapters
will be needed in order for KVM and computers to communicate properly. As a result,
cost as well as additional points of failure will increase by adding multi-platform
devices to basic KVM switches which are not initially set-up for them.
CAT5 cabling will communicate with any type of signal. Whether if Sun, Mac, or
USB computers all are connected to the same KVM switch, inexpensive CAT5 cabling
will transfer all signals across UTP without resistance. All that's required are
platform-specific dongles to support the type of multi-platform device - PS/2,
Sun, USB, Mac, or Serial.
Maximizing Distance with UTP Cabling
CAT5 distance specifications between user and computer is a question often asked
about UTP based KVM switches. For the most part, it will depend on which type
of CAT5 KVM you implement: Analog or IP based. For IP-based CAT5 KVM switches,
the maximum distance from user to server is approximately 10 meters. Although,
higher-end analog CAT5 KVM Switches will allow users extend as far as 1000 feet
from user to computer. Patch panels can assist with maximizing distance allowances;
although, Hubs and network switches cannot be connected anywhere along the CAT5
cable.
For a better idea on CAT5 distances, please check with the technical specifications
of the desired KVM switch.
Implementing CAT5-based KVM switches is often easier than managing data centers
with standard KVM switches when considering these 5 simple arguments. Benefits
such as allowable distance over CAT5 along with ease of use designate CAT5 KVM
switches as the go-to solution for today's modern data center.
Copyright 2005 by Directnet, Inc.
About the Author:
Robert Pavlokovic is an expert in the KVM and Server Management Industry and is
the technical writer for server and data center management topics. He also has
a strong background in product testing and evaluation. He writes professionally
for 42U (www.42U.com), KVM Switches Online (www.kvm-switches-online.com),
Server Racks Online (www.server-rack-online.com),
DirectNET (www.directnet.us). He provides
consultation on enterprise solutions for server management equipment and is also
the lead product trainer. Robert Pavlokovic comes from a strong 3-year sales and
engineering background for enterprise server management solutions. |
