Turning on computer using communication port

I am working on something that would require a computer to be turned on "remotely" but still within reach in the same building. I did some reading about WOL (Wake On LAN) and would like to know if there's any other way to turn computer on either through a USB cable, serial RS232 port or some other existing method that I haven't come to know yet.

I've also read about turning on power supply by connecting one of the pin which will in turn power up the said computer. I am open to ideas so please throw in your suggestions.

Scott

Posted 2010-12-16T02:41:23.770

Reputation: 147

1what was wrong with wake on lan by the way ? It works really well. – Sirex – 2010-12-16T08:09:25.780

Answers

If you've got a bit of budget one of the simplest solutions is a remote controlled power supply. Something like these products from Dataprobe. They are extremely useful and pretty easy to setup. Most computers now days have an option in the BIOS to boot as soon as there is power, so this offers a very simple solution to your problem.

heavyd

Posted 2010-12-16T02:41:23.770

Reputation: 54 755

This remote controlled power supply is interesting and I am going to include it in my consideration. :) – Scott – 2010-12-16T03:45:26.700