ATEN SN9108CO 8-Port Serial Console Server

Overview

The ATEN SN9108CO is a rack-mount serial console server providing 8 serial ports for out-of-band management of network equipment, servers, and serial-attached devices. Designed for data center and equipment-room deployments, the SN9108CO lets administrators reach console ports on routers, switches, and servers over IP — without needing physical access to the rack. The auto DTE detection removes the guesswork of serial cable orientation, which matters when you're managing a dense rack of mixed-vendor gear. Firmware version v1.8.178 (released 2024-05-02) is the current production release.

Compatibility

The SN9108CO integrates with both Linux and Unix environments. Linux hosts connect via Real TTY driver (v1.1.101), which maps each serial port as a native /dev/tty device — useful for applications that expect a local serial interface rather than a network socket. Unix environments use the Fixed TTY driver (v1.1.101) for stable, predictable port mapping. This makes the unit compatible with terminal emulators, serial-dependent automation scripts, and management platforms that rely on TTY-based console access. It fits within the broader ATEN KVM and console server lineup alongside the SN0108CO and SN0116CO for deployments requiring fewer or more ports respectively.

Installation Notes

The unit accepts universal AC input (100–240V~, 1A, 50/60Hz) via an IEC 60320/C14 inlet — a standard C13 power cord is required, not included. Operating humidity ceiling is 80% RH non-condensing, so avoid direct installation above cooling equipment that generates condensation. Rack dimensions follow ATEN's LxWxH format rather than the conventional WxDxH — verify clearance using the physical unit, not spec-sheet dimensions alone. Firmware upgrades are delivered as a ZIP package; maintain local copies of both the firmware archive and the OS driver packages before any scheduled maintenance window.