Remote Console/Single User Mode.

[Steve Slade]

I want to increase the size of some of my system partitions (ie. /, /usr, etc) on one of my servers. Normally, I do this via single-user mode, the console and lvextend, etc.

However, this machine is not situated locally. Is there any clever way I can do this remotely, without getting off my backside and treking half way across the country. Unfortunately we do not have a modem connected to the machine, (that would make things too easy). I have read also about assigning the console to different machines, but my options seem only to other comms ports, other than that the console reverts back to the original terminal at re-boot.

Does anyone know anyway of setting up the console over a LAN - I've seen a few notes on LAN Console, but they do not elude to how or what this actualy is. Alternatively, are there any other clever tricks for increasing the size of these partitons, that I could use remotely?

[MARTINACHE]

The Secure Web Console is a small box which permit to connect your console on the lan and access it from a browser.

Very Usefull !!!

[Andreas Voss]

Hi,

LAN consoles are new features of new servers such as A, L or N-Class.
What server class do you gave ?

Regards

[Steve Slade]

Unfortunately, it is a measly E35.

Should I book my train ticket now?

[melvyn burnard]

If you get a modem connected and tested to the unit, then there is a switch on the rear to enable remopte console mode. Yo dial on, with the switch enabled, do Ctl-B, and you have the console. This will allow you to reboot and everything else, so it is worthwhile trying to get this done, before packing a suitcase.

[Timothy Czarnik]

Any chance of installing Mirror Disk and Online JFS? These would allow to increase the filesystem sizes on the fly.

Just a thought...

-Tim

[Steve Slade]

Melvyn,

Thanks for your reply. A modem is the easiest option, however, the server is at a remote site, and I cannot find anyone to install it - other than myself.

Tim,

Your option of Mirror Disk / Online JFS sounds interesting. We do not have mirror disk software on this machine, but I can install it. I will have to check with regards to Online JFS as I have never used this product before. This machine is at 10.20, however, is this a problem? Could you elaborate on this option further, I am assuming its something along the lines of booting up on the mirrored partition, to extend the original partition?

[Alan Riggs · Accepted solution]

If you have a spare disk, you can simply build a new root with the desired specifications, boot off of it, then replicate back to your original (with mirrorDisk or manually). Just like the old-time emergency boot disk procedures.

It's a minor pain, but much less impactive than a cross-country trip.

[Steve Slade]

Duh! Its simple when you know how, isn't it ...

Thanks to everyone for your help, I can now cash in my train ticket at the local Beer Festival ...