Abstract: A method and means for the recovery of non-logged data by a CPU/channel from a storage subsystem, which data would normally be overwritten upon the subsystem being RESET by the CPU/channels. A defaulting control unit simultaneously initiates a DISCONNECT IN sequence to its attaching channels and sets an appropriate status bit at a control unit/control unit communications interface. The channel responds to the DISCONNECT IN with a SELECTIVE RESET interface sequence which sequence is buffered by the defaulting control unit. Meanwhile, the companion functioning control unit, when operating at its lowest interrupt level, polls the status bit periodically and offloads data registers through the interface connection from the defaulting unit within a predetermined time. At the end of this interval, the SELECTIVE RESET is honored, thereby erasing all data in the defaulting control unit registers.