RAQ Console FAQ

From Parvi - Open source software and patches

How do I enable/disable the serial console?

The console state can be changed via software, with the "cmos"' tool or with a special button held at startup. To see the state of the console setting with the "cmos" tool:

# cmos -c console

To change the console setting:

# cmos -c console [on|off]

You must reboot for the change to take full effect.

What if my system doesn't have the "cmos" command or doesn't have an OS currently?

You can also change the console setting by holding a special button while the system powers on. For 3000 series systems, the special button is the 'Password Reset' button (the little recessed button). For 5000 series systems, the special button is the left arrow these systems do not have a 'Password Reset' button). Hold the button down, then power on the system. Keep the button pressed until you see the message "console ON" or "console OFF" appear. This process is a toggle. If you do it again, it will change the setting back.

What serial console settings should I use?

The serial console is set to 115200 bits per second, 8 data bits, no stop bit, 1 parity bit. These settings are hard coded.