To start with, we'll look at some of the factors driving us to faster and faster data rates. Then, we'll look at three extremely effective methods of moving data between boards and open architecture VMEbus DSP systems, namely, mezzanine boards, auxiliary backplane I/O, and front panel I/O. Then we'll illustrate this technology with several board level products and show you how to take advantage of these interfaces to create really powerful systems using standard off-the-shelf products. Let's start by looking at why we have to move so much data so quickly.