A switch/network adapter port ("SNAP.TM.") in a dual in-line memory module
("DIMM") or Rambus.TM. in-line memory module ("RIMM") format for
clustered computers employing multi-adaptive processor ("MAP.RTM.", both
trademarks of SRC Computers, Inc.) elements for use with interleaved
memory controllers. Particularly disclosed is a microprocessor based
computer system utilizing either a DIMM or RIMM physical format adapter
port coupled to a reconfigurable processor element for the purpose of
implementing a connection to an external switch, network, or other
device. In a particular embodiment, connections may be provided to either
the PCI, accelerated graphics port ("AGP") or system maintenance ("SM")
bus for purposes of passing control information to the host
microprocessor or other control chips. The field programmable gate array
("FPGA") based processing elements have the capability to alter data
passing through it to and from an external interconnect fabric or device.