Abstract: A method of discovering and operating a payload node (104) includes in a computer network (100) having a central node (102) coupled to a payload node slot (110), coupling the payload node to the payload node slot. The payload node executing a payload boot algorithm (120) located at the payload node. The payload boot algorithm discovers a hardware capability set (122) of the payload node. The payload boot algorithm communicating the hardware capability set to a payload discovery manager (114) at the central node. The payload discovery manager selecting a software set (116) based on the hardware capability set. The payload discovery manager communicating the software set to the payload node and the payload node transitioning from the payload boot algorithm to the software set while bypassing rebooting the payload node to the software set.

Abstract: In a method for switching between multiple system processors (152,172) on a CompactPCI bus (110,120), when a standby system processor (172,152) determines a failure affecting an active system processor (152,172) on the CompactPCI bus (110,120), the standby system processor (172,152) places a special arbiter (820) in a one master mode. If the standby system processor (172,152) determines that a device is at risk of performing a destructive action, the standby system processor (172,152) quiesces the device. The standby system processor (172,152) then places the special arbiter (820) in a multiple master mode.