Opengear has integrated uninterruptible power supply (UPS) monitoring tools in its uClinux-based remote access equipment. Opengear's console servers (pictured at left) now include tools derived from the open source Network UPS Tools (NUT) project, says the company.

The NUT project software supports UPS devices from vendors including APC, Belkin, MGE, Powerware, and Tripp Lite, says Opengear. Integrated with Opengear's existing power management features in console servers such as the CM4000 console servers (pictured above), the NUT tools offer a single web-based interface for multiple devices that are connected either via Serial or USB connections. The tools help remote access managers can ensure safe shutdowns of systems in case of power problems, says the company.

Opengear was founded three years ago by uClinux pioneer Bob Waldie, with the aim of using open-source software to reduce the cost of remote access and network center management equipment. Its IM4200 gateways and CM4000 console servers are said to offer secure, remote, in-band access based on VNC and RDP tunneled through SSL, an approach that Opengear says is easier and more affordable than enterprise-wide VPN gateways. The devices also offer out-of-band management, enabling remote users to reboot crashed servers without involving hosting provider staff. Last month, Opengear announced the integration of the Nagios open-source network and device monitoring software in its remote access equipment.

Stated Bob Waldie, CEO of Opengear, “A UPS can only provide power for a limited period of time, so it is essential that either the UPS management software is configured to initiate automatic graceful shutdowns, or the administrators are alerted of power disruptions impacting any UPS and given visibility of the UPS battery status so they have time to manage manual shutdowns. Opengear delivers both these features.”

Availability

Opengear's console servers are now available with the integrated NUT tools, says Opengear.

 
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