How to set up your first console connection to the open networking switch?

Introduction

In this guide, you will learn how to connect open networking switches using an RS232-RJ45 cable along with a USB-RS232 adapter. We’ll walk you through each step—from preparing the necessary hardware and software to configuring a stable console connection. Additionally, we’ll address common issues that may arise, such as port failures or incorrect settings, and how to troubleshoot them effectively.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to manage your networking hardware like a pro.

Preparation

• A personal computer with a USB port.
• Serial console cable:
  • RS232-RJ45 cable (typically included in the original packaging).
  • USB-RS232 adapter.
• A console terminal application:
  • Putty, Teraterm, SecureCRT, etc.

If the issue persists, please contact our support team.

Connection Procedure

STEP 1: Connect the console cable

The console port is usually labeled on the device.

NOTE: Ensure you are connected to the CONSOLE port on the front panel.

The cable should be connected as shown below.

GUI

STEP 1: Open a console terminal application.

• Example applications: Putty, Teraterm, SecureCRT.

STEP 2: Select the correct COM port and click OPEN.

STEP 3: After Connection

If everything is configured properly, you should see an output in the console similar to this:

CLI

STEP 1: Install and configure Picocom.

sudo apt install picocom

STEP 2: Check available serial ports and connect:

dmesg | grep tty
picocom /dev/ttyUSB0 -r -l -b 115200

ubuntu@NB-TECH11:~$ dmesg | grep tty
[    0.085600] printk: console [tty0] enabled
[   11.327742] usb 1-2: FTDI USB Serial Device converter now attached to ttyUSB0
[  192.926656] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[  365.210379] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[  370.779946] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[  680.739751] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[  816.299931] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[  949.389473] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[ 1061.633088] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
[ 1163.050929] ftdi_sio ttyUSB0: usb_serial_generic_read_bulk_callback - urb stopped: -32
ubuntu@NB-TECH11:~$ picocom /dev/ttyUSB0 -s 115200
picocom v3.1
port is        : /dev/ttyUSB0
flowcontrol    : none
baudrate is    : 115200
parity is      : none
databits are   : 8
stopbits are   : 1
escape is      : C-a
local echo is  : no
noinit is      : no
noreset is     : no
hangup is      : no
nolock is      : no
send_cmd is    : sz -vv -E
receive_cmd is : rz -vv -E
imap is        : 
omap is        : 
emap is        : crcrlf,delbs,
logfile is     : none
initstring     : none
exit_after is  : not set
exit is        : no
Type [C-a] [C-h] to see available commands
Terminal ready
OpenBMC Release 01.0F.00
bmc login:

Conclusion

By following this guide, you now know how to successfully connect open networking switches using an RS232-RJ45 cable and troubleshoot common issues. For more networking solutions and professional services, visit www.stordis.com and step into the world of open networking today.