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Techboy
Asked: 2009-06-10 02:07:20 +0800 CST

Cold Booting a Server over IP KVM - Which Type of PDU is Required?

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If I get an IP KVM, what type of Power Distribution Unit (PDU) would I need in order to perform cold boots of a server? Would I need a switched type of PDU or will any PDU be okay?

I am looking for a cheap solution so that I can reboot a single server at a remote location.

keyboard-video-mouse power-distribution-unit

3 Answers

  1. Best Answer

    You have 3 options to cold boot a server remotely:

    1. A IP, managed(Switched) PDU that can turn the power outlets on / off
    2. A Remote Management Card in the server(DRAC, Lights Out, etc)
    3. A local set of hands

    The remote management card will provide both your power control, and remote KVM functionality. If you have equipment that does not offer remote management, a switched/managed PDU is the way to go.

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  2. If you've got an external IPKVM, you'll need some sort of remotely-accessable power switch. They're not spectacularly expensive, but the better class of colo will usually offer a remotely-accessable power rail as part of the service.

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  3. Try this UPS, it's a small one with one of the plugs on it is a switchable load one. Which means you can remotely power cycle it. They have other models of UPS with more if you needed that.

    I've never found a PDU for a small setup cheaper. I've used one of this series for years, no issues

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