Universal Rack Architecture Management System

A universal rack architecture management system provides a single point of administration and management through use of a novel universal management appliance. The universal management appliance enables communication between it and at least one serial console device. The universal management appliance also allows for remote control of: a server, a storage array module, a multi-interface module, a firewall, an uninterruptable power supply, a power distribution unit, a computer, a serial console device, and other manageable devices. The universal management appliance also manages an IPMI capable server, including iDRAC, iLO IMM, and ILOM. The universal management appliance monitors and receives real-time telemetry. The universal management appliance uses standard network, IPMI, USB, or Serial (DB9) interfaces. The universal management appliance automatically sends real-time predictive and actual failure notifications and alerts. The universal management appliance operates on an independent base operating system. The system consumes minimal amounts of electricity and generates nominal BTU/heat.