ZPE SYSTEMS Nodegrid Serial Plus - Core 8-Port Serial Console Server with Dual Gigabit Ethernet

The Nodegrid Serial Plus - Core delivers 8 RS-232 serial ports and dual Gigabit Ethernet in a compact 1U half-width chassis, powered by an Intel Atom C2000 processor with 4GB DDR3 RAM and 32GB eMMC flash. Built for out-of-band management, it provides secure remote access to network, serial, and power devices even when the primary network is down.

Overview

As part of the Nodegrid family, the Serial Plus - Core combines hardware reliability with ZPE Linux, a hardened operating system that supports Docker containers and KVM virtualization. It is ideal for data centers, branch offices, and edge locations needing centralized console management and automation.

What stands out

• 8 RJ-45 serial ports for direct console access to routers, switches, firewalls, and other serial devices.
• Dual 1GbE Ethernet ports with failover and link aggregation for high availability.
• TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and FIPS 140-2 compliant cryptography ensure enterprise-grade security.
• Built-in automation with Python scripting, Ansible integration, and Zero Touch Provisioning.
• Flexible management via CLI, Web GUI, RESTful API, and SNMP.
• Supports Docker containers and KVM hypervisor for running custom applications on the appliance.

Technical details

• Processor: Intel Atom C2000 series, multi-core architecture.
• Memory: 4GB DDR3 RAM, 32GB eMMC flash storage.
• Ports: 8 x RJ-45 serial (RS-232), 2 x 1GbE RJ-45 Ethernet, 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A.
• Management protocols: SSH, Telnet, HTTPS, SFTP, SCP, NTP, DNS, DHCP, IPv4/IPv6.
• Security: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, FIPS 140-2, LDAP/RADIUS/TACACS+ authentication.
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F).
• Power: Single internal AC power supply.
• Form factor: 1U half-width rackmount or desktop, optional rackmount kit.
• Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS.

Our verdict

The Nodegrid Serial Plus - Core is a robust and secure serial console server that excels in out-of-band management. Its combination of hardware performance, extensive protocol support, and automation capabilities makes it a top choice for IT teams seeking reliable infrastructure access and control.