Asynchronous interface for network interface card in computer system, has PrntInt signaling line to provide output from network interface card for requesting reinitialization of interface

摘要

A signaling line NICInt (113) provides an output from a peripheral device (110) for requesting network interface card (120) of data transfer in reverse direction and requests the interface to return to a normal mode, when the transfer in reverse direction is finished. A signaling line PrntInt (124) provides an output from the network interface card for requesting reinitialization of the interface. Signal ground line (131), power supply line (132) and ground (133) are connected between the network interface card and peripheral device. Eight data lines are connected between the device and card. A signaling line (NICClk) (121) provides an output from the card for hand shaking, when data is transferred in forward direction. A signaling line PrntClk (111) provides an output from the peripheral device, when data is transferred in forward and reverse direction respectively. NICAck (122) provides output from the card, when data is transferred in reverse direction. NICBusReq (123) provides output from the card for indicating its readiness for change in transfer direction and requests the peripheral device to complete the change of transfer direction immediately. PrntBusAck (112) provides output from the peripheral device for acknowledging change of transfer direction. An Independent claim is also included for communication method via asynchronous interface.