APC AP5717UK rack console 43.2 cm (17") Black

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

If you’re looking at the APC AP5717UK, you’re probably trying to solve a very specific rack problem: getting a reliable, always-available local console for a 17" KVM setup without faffing around with monitors, keyboards and power leads. At ~£1109 ex-VAT, it’s not “cheap”, but it’s in that sensible enterprise lane where you’re paying for build quality, rack usability, and low-drama day-to-day operation. For managed service providers or internal IT teams who need a proper console at the rack (for outages, firmware work, BIOS/installer access, and the occasional “we just need local, now”), it tends to make more sense than cobbling together consumables.

That said, I wouldn’t buy it just because it’s “an APC console” — I’d only go for it if you already know you need a KVM workstation-style rack console and you’ve checked compatibility with your existing KVM switch/controller plan. Also, if you rarely need local access and your environment is mostly remote management, you might be overpaying for something you won’t use often. Overall: great fit for data centres, server rooms, and teams who genuinely rely on local console access; questionable value if your use is occasional or you’re not confident about the KVM ecosystem it’s meant to sit in.