[TriLUG] remote hardware management

[Jason Tower]

i'm reaching the point where i have a significant number of servers at my 
colo facility.  it has become evident that i could use two things:

1. a way to access multiple hosts via serial, that way i can communicate 
with them even when networking fails, or i iptables myself out by mistake, 
or sshd dies, etc.  something that takes up only 1u of space, can provide 
serial access to ~16 machines, and accepts ssh connections.  the other 
option is an IP kvm switch but that seems like a clunky alternative.

2. a way to power cycle hardware in a worst case scenario.  something like 
an intelligent power strip that can be accessed via ssh or serial that allow 
individual control of outlets.

i know these devices exist, i just don't have any firsthand experience with 
them to know what works well and what doesn't.  any suggestions or 
recommendations would be welcome.

jason