Dieter wrote:
>> I have just noticed that the machine hangs at the NetBSD boot prompt
>> when the serial cable isn't plugged in
> 
> Perhaps it is waiting for carrier detect?

It could be. Is there any way to stop this behavior, if it is?

> 
>> it just refuses to actually do the timeout countdown and boot the kernel
>>  until I plug it in, hit enter, which brings me a prompt, and type 'boot'.
> 
> Does it autoboot if the cable is plugged in?  Or do you always have
> to type at it?

It autoboots fine if the cable is plugged in, I don't have to manually 
type 'boot'.

> 
>> I can't have the cable plugged in to my laptop 24/7,
>> as my laptop happens to sit on the other side of the room.
> 
> Use a longer cable?
> 

Not really an option I am afraid. Said laptop is getting donated to my 
parents and won't be in my room for much longer, which is why I would 
really like it to boot properly without the cable plugged in.

-- 
Mark Cullen <mark.r.cullen@gmail.com>