The goal of the initialization phase is to independently start and restart signaling nodes. This results in a synchronized system (one in which both nodes agree on which is the primary and which is the backup) that restores signaling functionality as quickly as possible.
During initialization, an RMG process contacts its mate to determine if the mate is already primary. If no response is received or a communication error occurs, the RMG process delays for a short period and retries. If the retry is unsuccessful (or the mate determines it is the backup node), the restarting board becomes the primary board. The delay and retry is necessary to avoid having both nodes initialize simultaneously, unable to contact each other, and both become primary.
To resolve startup glare, where both nodes initialize, each RMG process is assigned a node number (1 or 2). The lower numbered node (node 1) becomes the primary node and the higher numbered node becomes the backup when startup glare is detected.