What are the options for having remote control via network of a computer even down to the "bios" level. I've seen Dell's DRAC / Out-of-band management that they have for their servers, and typically is a built-in management card. I'm asking about more generic, non-rackmount machines that were not originally designed with this in mind.
I'd like to be able to remotely control whatever type of server I'm currently accessing - windows, linux, or mac - and be able to access it from either linux or mac. I'd like the type of control that would allow me to "press f2" (etc) and enter setup, change bios settings, interrupt the boot process, etc. It's OK if it is a 'video blocking' solution (i.e. nothing else can be plugged into the machine for video)
I've found the StarTech.com 1 Port USB PS/2 Server Remote Control IP KVM Switch which claims to do what I'm asking for - but it's $400 and uses a java web interface :(
Are there any cheaper / lighter weight alternatives? I'm not opposed to a DIY type of solution.