How Does PCI Express Work?

What Is PCI Express?

PCI Express or Peripheral Component Interconnect Express is an expansion card that is placed inside of a computer and is similar in appearance to a video card. This expansion card was created to take the place of older PCI cards. This card is more advanced and provides higher speeds. This card is connected to the motherboard of the computer and is used to provide connectivity for devices, such as Ethernet cards or video cards. Using PCI Express to connect a TV tuner to your PCI Express expansion card results in better graphics than the older PCI models. Users prefer PCI Express because it allows devices connected to it to operate more efficiently.

Types of PCI Express

The PCI Express card is noticeably different in appearance than the older PCI cards since it is smaller. There is a 16x PCI Express card and a 4x PCI express card. The 16x card operates at speeds of 4000 MBS. The 4x card is smaller and operates at 1000 MBS.
PCI Express cards are different from regular PCI cards in that the distance of the card's bracket and connector is very little. The regular PCI cards had more distance between the bracket and the connector that is used to connect the card to your PC.

How Does PCI Express Work?

PCI Express devices carry data packets and information on a route at a particular rate. PCI Express allows this information to be routed at high speed connections. The card uses a serial interface and is its connectors are "hot pluggable." This allows it to be connected or disconnected without turning off your machine. The PCI card allows devices to communicate with your PC by using "links." These links create a channel by means of "ports" allowing the PCI device to receive and send requests.