[NTLUG:Discuss] linux laptop as console to unix server

[Brian Kontrath]

Chris Cox wrote:

>
> Need a null modem cable/adapter.  I use a 9pin-RJ45 null modem
> adapter and then I carry 9 and 25pin to RJ45 adapters for use
> with the servers.   Of course, I really don't have a 9pin
> serial on my laptop, so actually I use a USB to 9pin adapter
> to get a serial port (9pin serial now considered to be obsolete
> legacy stuff).  By using RJ45.. I can just string a piece of
> CAT5 (network cable) of any length to connect.
>
> Then use minicom to access.  I usually set for 9600 8-N-1, seems
> to be work with the normal default for most devices (server, routers,
> switches, etc).  You may have to adjust those values based on
> the server's needs.
>
>
>
What would you do to prepare the Unix server?  Do you have to set up 
mgetty to listen to the serial port?