Abstract: A computer system includes a bus. A first connector is coupled to the bus. A first processor is coupled to the first connector. A second connector is coupled to the bus. A lock-out unit is coupled to the first and second connectors. The lock-out unit disables the first processor in response to a slot occupation signal that indicates when one of a second processor and a termination card is not coupled to the second connector. By disabling the first processor when a termination card or processor does not occupy one of the slots, data corruption due to improper bus termination is prevented.

Abstract: An interface adapter board according to the present invention can be inserted directly between two electronic parts without substantially displacing the electronic parts laterally. An electronic circuit board may include: (a) a first electronic part having a first array of conductors; (b) a second electronic part having a second array of conductors; and (c) an interface adapter board placed between the first and second electronic parts in such a way to minimize the lateral distance between each conductor of the first array and its respective conductor of the second array. The interface adapter board has a third array of conductors and a fourth array of conductors formed through the interface adapter board and positioned in an interstitial relationship with the third array of conductors. Each conductor of the first array is coupled to its respective conductor of the third array. A first set of conductors of the third array is directly coupled to its respective set of conductors of the fourth array.