---
title: "What is PCI"
subject: "Computer Organization and Architecture"
chapter: 1
key: "semester_5/computer_organization_and_architecture:pci"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_5/computer_organization_and_architecture/pci
site: BCT Engineering
---

# What is PCI

Computer Organization and Architecture · Chapter 1: Introduction

- Asked in: 2076 Asoj, 1 marks
- Video: [How A Computer Works: PCI (Part 5)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEOMj0ZK1vU) — HRiUtilities
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_5/computer_organization_and_architecture/pci
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_5/computer_organization_and_architecture/chapter-1

## Question

What is PCI?

## Short answer

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) is a high-bandwidth, processor-independent bus that connects peripherals like graphics and network cards. It supports 32- or 64-bit transfers at 33 or 66 MHz, uses a bridge to the system bus, and offers plug-and-play configuration.

## Answer

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) is a high-bandwidth, processor-independent bus used to connect peripheral devices (graphics, network, disk controllers) to the system. It supports 32 or 64-bit data transfer at 33 or 66 MHz and works through a bridge, with plug-and-play configuration.

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. Which is a feature of PCI?
   A. Works only with one CPU type
   B. Processor-independent with plug-and-play configuration
   C. Has no bridge
   D. Supports only 8-bit transfers
   Answer: B. PCI is processor independent and uses a bridge. (Key point: Features)

2. PCI supports data transfer of
   A. 8 bits at 1 MHz
   B. 16 bits at 10 MHz
   C. 128 bits at 1 GHz
   D. 32 or 64 bits at 33 or 66 MHz
   Answer: D. These are the standard PCI parameters. (Key point: Width and speed)