Belkin has expanded its OmniViewIP server management line with the OmniViewIP 5000HQ Centralized Management Appliance.

The company said that the new offering offers a centralised product that simplifies server management so that IT administrators can focus on their key issues.

In addition to integration with OmniViewIP KVM/IP Switches and OmniViewIP Serial Console Servers, the new offering also provides support for third-party power distribution units (PDUs) and software tools, including Remote Desktop, Virtual Network Computing (VNC), and Secure Shell (SSH).

Some of the new features of the OmniView HQ include: logical access to servers, switches, PDUs, software management tools, and other IP-based devices; provides granular access to devices and ports to customise access by individual user account; manages third-party PDUs, associating specific outlets to individual servers; and incorporates access to existing tools, such as Terminal Services, VNC, Telnet, and SSH.

In addition, the new offering is said to offer integration with HP iLO service processors for KVM, serial, and power management and accommodates existing server management hardware to consolidate view/access capabilities.

Bob Laliberte, analyst of Enterprise Strategy Group, said: Managing heterogeneous server environments, distributed across multiple locations, is demanding for any company, large or small. Belkin delivers a feature-rich solution that allows companies to cost-effectively manage disparate IP-based tools and devices – without having to make additional investment in their infrastructures.