In the embedded computer industry, both manufacturers and users are facing the challenge of selecting the right solution from a formidable multitude of bus, interface, and communication standards. Furthermore, this process becomes even more difficult in times of major technological changes, as is the case with the current transition from parallel to serial standards. This article first describes the most important interfaces that play a role in most x86-based embedded systems. After that, it highlights the advantages and disadvantages of current and future standards for embedded computer applications and points out special design-in considerations.