Abstract: One embodiment of the invention provides a fully distributed, scaleable and modular rack architecture and management system. One feature of the invention provides device management throughout the rack system with a vertical interface column integrated into the rack cabinet. Within each rack unit (U) of the vertical interface column, the vertical interface column may deliver connectivity to a device housed within the rack cabinet thereby eliminating runs of cable typically necessary for management of such devices. The vertical interface column can be expanded as necessary to provide connectivity to more devices using hot-swappable interface modules. A rack management system allows both local and remote management access to all devices mounted in the rack cabinet and coupled to the vertical interface column. The rack management system may also access to devices mounted in other rack cabinets.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention provides a fully distributed, scaleable and modular rack architecture and management system. One feature of the invention provides device management throughout the rack system with a vertical interface column integrated into the rack cabinet. Within each rack unit (U) of the vertical interface column, the vertical interface column may deliver connectivity to a device housed within the rack cabinet thereby eliminating runs of cable typically necessary for management of such devices. The vertical interface column can be expanded as necessary to provide connectivity to more devices using hot-swappable interface modules. A rack management system allows both local and remote management access to all devices mounted in the rack cabinet and coupled to the vertical interface column. The rack management system may also access to devices mounted in other rack cabinets.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention provides a fully distributed, scaleable and modular rack architecture and management system. One feature of the invention provides device management throughout the rack system with a vertical interface column integrated into the rack cabinet. Within each rack unit (U) of the vertical interface column, the vertical interface column may deliver connectivity to a device housed within the rack cabinet thereby eliminating runs of cable typically necessary for management of such devices. The vertical interface column can be expanded as necessary to provide connectivity to more devices using hot-swappable interface modules. A rack management system allows both local and remote management access to all devices mounted in the rack cabinet and coupled to the vertical interface column. The rack management system may also access to devices mounted in other rack cabinets.

Abstract: An improved control and monitoring system for managing more than one computer system using a witch with a single connector for keyboard, video and mouse signals for each computer being managed. A notebook style display, keyboard, and pointing device attached to the switch provide a human interface. Each computer is attached to the switch using a cable having a single connector at the attachment point to the switch and separate connectors for keyboard, video, and pointing device signals at the attachment point to each computer, thus allowing a greater density of connections to computers without modifying the computers being controlled and monitored. Even greater densities may be realized by designating one switch as a master and attaching additional switches to the master.