Abstract: A system and method for developing a software program containing sensitive information requires the use of a developer key (a unique public/private key pair) to download the software onto a uniquely identified developer chip. The software program can then be developed and debugged on the developer chip. After being developed and debugged, the software program is transferred to a uniquely identified release chip for subsequent use. Specifically, transfer of the software program requires use of a release key (also a public/private key pair) that is different from the developer key. The private key part of the developer key, as well as all developer chips (albeit a limited number) are protected by strict security procedures.

Abstract: A multistation computer system includes a host computer and a plurality of workstations coupled to the host computer by a communications bus. The host computer is coupled to the communications bus by a host controller and each workstation is coupled to the communications bus by a workstation controller. When the host computer performs a data transaction with a workstation, the host controller monitors the bus signals on the host computer and determines which workstation is being addressed. The host's bus signals are then encoded and sent to the appropriate workstation in a data packet transmitted over the communications bus. In the preferred embodiment the encoded bus signals are transmitted over an optical fiber bus which is daisy chained to all the workstation in the computer system and then back to the host computer. At the workstation the encoded bus signals are decoded and then asserted on the workstation's bus.