Xyplex servers and dial-up modems



Updated 16 March 2006

History

  • The Xyplex allows people to get free connection to the Zoo cluster and other servers around campus without using an ISP.
  • There are four servers and 14 dial-up lines:
    • fred.uvm.edu 132.198.101.160 (for general users) 658-5041
    • bambam.uvm.edu 132.198.101.165 (for tech support) 862-3631
    • pebbles.uvm.edu 132.198.164 (for general users) 658-5004, 0551-0559, 0577
    • betty.uvm.edu 132.198.101.163 (for on-campus users) 3-4272
  • Manuals and paper docs are in JSR's office closet

Operation

  • Sometimes a modem will hang up, use the Select and Reset buttons
  • A powered up, unused modem will have these lights on: MR, DTR, DSR, RTS, CTS
  • A powered up, in-use modem will have the above, plus: CD and DCD on, TD and RD flashing, maybe HS on too
  • A VT420 terminal behind the modem rack, labeled "Xyplex Console", allows dialing in from the machine room. Find a telephone jack somewhere for the Cardinal modem. Plug everything in and type the ATDT command: atdt9,6585004. Select Zoo from the menu and login to your Zoo account.

Plans

  • This hardware will not be moved to the new data center at Technology Park, so people will be requested to obtain an ISP.
  • Mike generated a list of Zoo users who dialed in through the Xyplex, about 30 people.
  • I asked Tim Raymond for the same info about people coming in to his servers through our Xyplex. Haven't received it yet (15 Mar 2006).
  • David Todd wants to be very careful about how we disconnect this service so he and Keith are thinking about how to migrate people, so the migration is on hold. Here are some things they are thinking about.
    • Announce to the IT-ANNOUNCE list that the disconnect will happen and when (don't tell them at this time of the free offer, see below)
    • Use the userids Mike collected for 30 days dial in usage to offer them an IP service free for one year. UVM pays.
    • I coordinate setting up the free accounts, maybe at one ISP, do 30 new accounts.
    • The customer is responsible for setting up their PC (like installing an SSL client) but they can call the CIT Helpline for assistance.
    • Wait for David to say "go". We talked about this on 22 Feb 2006.

Questions

  1. Allow users to choose their ISP or we choose SOVERNET or GMA?
  2. What does UVM pay for, DSL, cable modem or dial-up service?