This section of the Terminal Server Configuration and Reference introduces the manual's audience and scope, organization, use and conventions.
This manual addresses two audiences: first, it provides information needed by the system administrator for configuring and maintaining a CiscoTM terminal server running Release 8.3 and earlier software (software changes from previous releases are noted in the release note accompanying this manual); second, this manual provides details on how users can make connections to network resources using a Cisco terminal server.
The Terminal Server Configuration and Reference publication provides information about using and configuring the Cisco terminal servers--use and administration of the system interface, system configuration, and network configuration. This manual, an appropriate Hardware Installation and Reference publication, and a software release note are included with each Cisco terminal server system.
This manual is divided into parts; each part is comprised of chapters describing related tasks or functions. Dividers separate four distinct parts:
- Part One: "System Introduction," contains an overview of the Cisco terminal server, and introductory information concerning first-time startup, and a description of the Cisco EXEC Command interpreter.
- Part Two: "System Configuration and Management," contains details about general system configuration procedures. You will want to turn to this section of the manual after performing procedures described in Chapter 2, "First-Time Startup."
- Part Three: "Transmission Protocols," contains chapters that provide information and procedures for configuring protocol-specific parameters for customizing connections.
- "Appendices," includes an ASCII chart, system error messages, and a brief list of recommended documents for terminal server users and system administrators.
- "Glossary," contains definitions of terms and concepts described in this manual.
- "Index," provides page references to the topics and commands covered in this manual.
The command descriptions use these conventions:
- Commands and keywords are in boldface.
- Variables for which you supply values are in italics.
- Elements in square brackets ([ ]) are optional.
- Alternative keywords are grouped in braces ({ }) and are separated by a vertical bar (|).
- Definition of string: A string is defined as a nonquoted set of characters. For example, when setting up a community string for SNMP to "public", do not use quotes around the string or the string will be set to "public".
The samples use these conventions:
- Terminal sessions are printed in a
typewriter-type font.
- Information you enter is in
boldface.
- Nonprinting characters are shown in angle brackets (<>).
- Information the system displays is in
typewriter-type, with default responses in square brackets ([ ]).
Italicized type also emphasizes new terms and concepts and is used for the titles of books and periodicals.
Note is a special paragraph that means
reader take note. It usually refers to helpful suggestions, the writer's assumptions, or references to materials not contained in this manual.
 | Caution is a special paragraph that means reader be careful. It means that you are capable of doing something that might result in equipment damage, or worse, that you might have to take something apart and start over again. |
