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

[fredjame]

Chris Cox wrote:

> fredjame wrote:
>
>> I work with several UNIX servers that each send "console" out of a 
>> DB9 serial port.
>> I would like to be able to use my Linux laptop to connect to that 
>> stream on an as need, periodic, basis (i.e., carry my laptop into the 
>> server room, run a serial cable between the server and the laptop, 
>> etc.).  Is this a difficult thing to do?  Any pointers would be 
>> appreciated.  Thank you in advance for any help you may be able to 
>> offer.
>> Regards
>> Fred James
>>
>
> 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.

I have minicom up and running but I can only seem to use it as root - as me I get the message(s) below, and I'm not finding any meaningful documentation (or maybe I'm just slipping).  Thank you in advance for any help you may be able to offer.
Regards
Fred James

$ minicom
** Parameter bits is public, but is marked private in global config file
** Parameter parity is public, but is marked private in global config file
** Parameter stopbits is public, but is marked private in global config file
Cannot create lockfile. Sorry.
$
                                                                                                                                                

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