System for PCI slots expansion using asynchronous PCI-to-PCI bridge with clock generator for providing clock signal to the expansion mother board and expansion side of bridge

摘要

An apparatus and method for providing PCI slot expansion. An asynchronous PCI to PCI bridge for insertion into a host PCI slot is coupled via a cabled PCI bus to an expansion module. The bridge establishes two distinct time domains. An expansion clock signal is generated and its timing matched for consistent arrival throughout the expansion clock domain. An expanded number of PCI slots are thereby available to the host system.