System for arbitrating demand on memory during configuration of a computer add-on card

摘要

A processor on an add-on card that arbitrates demand on a memory unit on the add-on card. The processor and memory unit are used for the underlying functionality of the add-on card. The processor determines an appropriate time to allow interface operations to the memory unit when the memory unit is not already being accessed for the underlying functionality of the card. By using the processor and memory unit on the add-on card for interface operations to the host computer, the add-on interface circuitry on the add-on card can be minimized and simplified.