Abstract: A computer system includes a first device on the first data bus, a second device on the second data bus, and a bridge device that delivers requests for data from the first device to the second device and returns the requested data to the first device. The bridge device includes a first data storage buffer that stores data requested by the first device during the first request, and a second data buffer that simultaneously stores data requested by the first device during a second request.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the types of expansion cards connected to the expansion slot connectors of a computer system. Detect signals are provided to decode logic for determining the types of expansion cards connected to the computer system. If the expansion cards are compatible the decode logic produces an output power supply signal that indicates what the voltage level should be for the power supply to the cards. If the cards are incompatible, the decode logic may not provide power to any of the cards or only provide power to some of the cards that are compatible. For computers that allow expansion cards to connect to the computer while the computer is powered on, hot-plug logic cooperates with the decode logic to establish power and communication with newly connected interface cards. The connectors in the computer do not include keys and thus interface cards without keys, as well as cards with different types of key arrangements can be connected to and communicate with the computer.

Abstract: A computer system includes a data storage device on a first data bus, a requesting device that initiates a delayed request on a second data bus, and a bridge device that delivers the delayed request to the first data bus and, after the requesting device regains control of the second data bus, begins providing data to the requesting device while the data storage device is providing the requested data to the bridge device.