Opengear CM8148-10G Device Server — High-Density 48-Port Serial Console with Dual 10GbE

The Opengear CM8148-10G Device Server is a purpose-built, high-density out-of-band management solution designed to keep critical infrastructure accessible even during network outages. With an exceptionally dense 48-port serial capability, it centralizes console access to servers, switches, storage devices, and embedded platforms, enabling IT teams to perform remote diagnostics, configuration, and recovery without on-site visits. Built for enterprise data centers, remote offices, and lab environments, this device server blends reliability, performance, and security into a compact 1U chassis that simplifies asset management and speeds incident response.

• High-density serial connectivity: 48 serial ports consolidate management for a large fleet of devices, reducing the need for multiple separate consoles and streamlining operator workflows.
• Robust network access: 2x 10Gb Ethernet plus 2x 1GbE interfaces deliver fast, reliable out-of-band and in-band management paths, with options for redundancy, link aggregation, and VLAN segmentation.
• Solid on-device resources: 2GB of memory and 32GB of onboard storage provide responsive performance, rapid firmware boot, and ample space for logging, scripting, and local recovery tools.
• Ready-to-deploy power and form factor: Includes a USB power cord for convenient power provisioning and ships in a 1U rackmount chassis designed for dense data-center cabinets and telecommunication rooms.
• Advanced remote management capabilities: Enterprise-grade out-of-band features deliver secure remote console access, encrypted communication, monitoring, and rapid remediation to minimize downtime.

Technical Details of Opengear CM8148-10G Device Server

• Ports: 48 serial ports for centralized console access to servers, network devices, and embedded platforms.
• Network interfaces: 2 x 10 Gb Ethernet and 2 x 1 Gb Ethernet for high-speed management networks, redundancy, and flexible topology.
• Memory: 2 GB RAM to support responsive management operations and local logging tasks.
• Storage: 32 GB onboard storage for firmware, scripts, logs, and local recovery data.
• Form factor: 1U rackmount chassis, engineered for dense data-center deployments and easy integration with standard 19" racks.
• Power/ready-to-use accessories: USB power cord included to simplify initial deployment and testing in diverse environments.
• Management features: Out-of-band management with secure remote access (SSH/TLS), remote console capabilities, event logging, and integrated monitoring to keep devices reachable during incidents.
• Security and reliability: Enterprise-grade encryption, role-based access, and robust firmware integrity checks designed for critical infrastructure environments.

How to install Opengear CM8148-10G Device Server

• Prepare and rack: Unpack the CM8148-10G and mount it in a standard 19" rack, ensuring adequate ventilation and access to power and network cables. Verify that the rack space provides enough clearance for cabling, cooling, and maintenance work.
• Connect management networks: Attach the two 10 Gb Ethernet ports to the primary management network for out-of-band access and the two 1 GbE ports to auxiliary networks as needed. Plan VLAN tagging and access controls to segregate management traffic from data traffic for security and performance.
• Attach serial devices: Connect servers, network switches, and other serial-enabled devices to the 48 serial console ports. Label cables to simplify future administration and ensure correct port-to-device mapping.
• Power up and initial access: Insert the USB power cord and apply power. Use a management workstation to reach the device via its default management address or through the Opengear Manager interface. Initiate the first boot and follow on-screen prompts to configure administrator credentials, network settings, and security policies.
• Configure and validate: Update to the latest firmware, set up user roles and access controls, and enable essential features such as remote console, event logging, and alerting. Validate serial device connectivity by initiating console sessions to several devices and confirming response times and prompt readability across ports.
• Establish monitoring and backups: Integrate the CM8148-10G with your network monitoring system, configure SNMP traps or syslog destinations, and set up automatic backups of configurations and scripts. Create test scenarios that simulate outages to verify that remote access and console redirection function correctly under failure conditions.
• Document and train: Record port mappings, management IP addresses, and access credentials in a secure, centralized repository. Provide operators with a short training session focused on console operations, out-of-band workflows, and incident response procedures.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the CM8148-10G Device Server used for?
  A: It is a high-density console server designed to centralize and secure out-of-band management for a large number of devices, enabling remote access, troubleshooting, and recovery without site visits.
• Q: How many serial ports are available?
  A: 48 serial ports, providing extensive coverage for servers, switches, storage devices, and embedded equipment across data centers and remote sites.
• Q: What network options does it offer?
  A: It includes two 10 Gb Ethernet ports and two 1 Gb Ethernet ports to support fast management traffic, redundancy, and flexible network design.
• Q: Does this device come with power cables?
  A: Yes, a USB power cord is included, enabling straightforward power provisioning and quick deployment in a variety of environments.
• Q: Is rack installation supported?
  A: Yes, the CM8148-10G is a 1U rackmount device designed for standard 19" racks, with mounting rails and hardware compatible with most data-center environments.
• Q: What security features are included?
  A: The device offers encrypted communication (SSH/TLS), role-based access control, secure boot features, and centralized management to protect sensitive console data and configuration settings.