OpenBSD Serial Console and X Windows

alanware · 10-03-2015, 08:56 AM

I have a situation where I would like to have access to my OpenBSD machine through the serial console, but still retain the ability to login through a graphical X Windows using a KVM. I have googled around and am not finding what I am looking for. Is this a possible scenario or are they mutually exclusive?

cynwulf · 10-04-2015, 07:43 AM

You won't find much info "googling". You can set the tty to use a com (RS232) port from the boot> prompt every boot rather than making it permanent.

alanware · 10-05-2015, 07:42 AM

That does not solve what I am wanting to accomplish. I would like to have both running at the same time. Thanks for taking the time to post.

cynwulf · 10-05-2015, 08:02 AM

I take it you've managed to do this with a different OS which is why you're trying to do the same in OpenBSD?

alanware · 10-05-2015, 10:07 AM

No. I have not done this with a different OS. I would like to be able to use serial to remote admin the system and also be able to use the X sever for KVM access for graphical purposes.

cynwulf · 10-05-2015, 11:03 AM

When you say "remote admin", are you are referring to a serial line and modem connection? If so that will bring you nothing but pain. If it's just up 50 foot of cable and the terminal is in the same building as the OpenBSD box, then I still have to wonder why you're trying to do this (you may have a valid reason - just wondering).

I'm not a mind reader, so I can't guess what you're trying to do. So: Is ssh not a better solution?

alanware · 10-05-2015, 01:45 PM

The box is sitting right beside me in a rack. I have a cms32 console management switch I am setting up. I use ssh when I have connectivity to the box. I would like to use the serial for when I don't and to play around with some of the features of the cms32. I often use qemu from fvwm, which is why I like to have access through my kvm device.

cynwulf · 10-05-2015, 02:58 PM

OK fair enough - final question: Have you asked on either daemonforums.org or the openbsd-misc mailing list? If not please do so before writing this off completely, as developers and highly advanced users hang out at both. Good luck.

alanware · 10-05-2015, 06:21 PM

No I have not, but I shall. Thanks.