The 32-bit card talks to the CPU 32 bits or 4 characters at a time. These cards come in 3 models, EISA, VESA, PCI.

The EISA card has two tabs that plug into the expansion slot. This card cost more than an ISA card and was not that popular. These cards are used primarily in some 386 PCs.

The VESA card has 4 tabs that plug into the expansion slot. This card has a direct connection to the CPU to improve performance, and is generally used for video. It is also called a local bus, as it connects directly to the CPU. It is generally used in 486 PCs.

The VESA cards gave way to the PCI card which has two tabs that plug into the expansion slot. Also a local bus card, this card can also support plug and play. It is generally used in Pentium PCs.