A data processing system, method and device. A device can include a plurality of data cards having host interface connectors initially configured to transmit signals according to a first communication protocol and data card connectors that communicate with external devices using a different communication protocol. The data cards are converted so that the host interface connectors also transmit signals using the second communication protocol. The plurality of data cards are interconnected so that signals can be routed through the data cards to provide desired data processing functions. A cross-point switch fabric allows the signals to be routed to the appropriate data card or cards. Multiple devices can be interconnected to provide a distributed data processing grid providing access to the data processing functions for external devices that do not communicate using the first communication protocol.