8.1. Verify console operation
If possible, plug an RS-232 breakout box
into the serial port. During reboot the Data Terminal Ready line
should become active and then the Transmit Data lights should flash
as console messages appear.
Attach a modem, or a null modem cable and a terminal.
Configure them to match the serial parameters used by the serial
console port. If using a modem, dial in to it from a terminal
emulator.
Configure the terminal or terminal emulator to match the
serial parameters used by the serial console. If using a modern
Hayes AT-style modem then the speed need not
match. If using a directly-attached terminal then the speed must
match.
Reboot the computer.
During reboot the terminal should see the usual boot loader
text, and then the default kernel booting, then the
init output, and finally the contents of
/etc/issue and
getty asking you to login.
If you do not see the login: message then
press Return or Enter.