3Com EtherLink 3C590 User Manual page 15

1-4 C 1: I
HAPTER NTRODUCTION
The PCI specification supports the following features:
High performance. The PCI local bus runs at a clock speed of
33 MHz and employs a 32-bit data bus that supports
multiple peripheral components and add-in cards at a peak
bandwidth of 132 MBps, up to an order of magnitude greater
than that of other PC buses (ISA, EISA, and MCA).
Automatic configuration. A PCI adapter has configuration
specifications set in on-board memory and provides
installation information to the computer at start-up.
Shared slots. The PCI specification calls for "shared slots," which
denotes the shared expansion backplate slot. This shared
backplate slot provides access to one of two types of
adapters: a PCI adapter and an ISA adapter, for example, or a
PCI adapter and an EISA adapter. Only one adapter at a time
can be installed in a shared slot. Manufacturers are currently
producing computers that support the PCI bus in conjunction
with conventional ISA or EISA buses in the same chassis.
For detailed information about the PCI local bus, consult the
PCI specification.