A method and machine for making frozen custard or similar products includes a freezing barrel, a pump for providing liquid mix to the freezing barrel, a dasher positioned in the freezing barrel for driving product through and dispensing the product from the freezing barrel, and a refrigeration system for chilling the freezing barrel. The SOC has a first circuit region powered by a main power source and a second circuit region powered by a real-time power source. Each node has a corresponding bus identifier. A negative ion generator is also used to boost the level of anions in the air. The program may be a joint-development program in which the participants are participating, and the information may be confidential information regarding the program that belongs to the respective participants.