So, I have a KVM, specifically a Belkin OmniView 8-Port USB/PS2. This is in a 1/3 private locking cabinet (colo). This is for my own personal use so I am dealing with very low budgets.
I would really like an IP KVM so that I can troubleshoot remotely. Belkin sells an OmniView SMB Remote IP Device for $630 that will add the IP functionality to this unit.
However, that seems like a waste of money to me, because I can buy a brand new IP-enabled KVM for only $730. So $100 more gets me a whole new unit, plus it's only one device to maintain.
My question: is there any other way to "IP-enable" an existing KVM? For instance, could I get a 1-port IP-KVM (like this one for $315) and just attach the IPKVM to my old, non-IP KVM? Or are there any software solutions?
I realize this is a very specific question, but I would love to avoid spending $600 if possible. Thanks in advance.
I haven't gotten to use one of these OpenGear IP-KVM devices yet, but they look awesome. They're relatively inexpensive ($345.00), and can be attached to existing KVM switches (see http://www.opengear.com/product-IP-KVM-diagrams.html) or directly to server computers.
As far as I know, there are no software options, because the device needs to be able to send keyboard/mouse commands and receive VGA video, which is not something a standard computer can do.
That single-port IP-KVM unit should be fine, just make sure that you know what the keyboard shortcuts for your KVM are (often it's related to the Print-Screen button) so that youc an send them over the IP device.
Many vendors have built-in solutions that solve the KVM issue. For example, Dell has DRAC cards that have a separate network interface and a web-GUI to provide console access - relatively speaking they are quite inexpensive. That might be an option for you.