An electronic document distribution terminal includes a first adapter (12) coupled to data entry and document preparation means and a second adapter (15) coupled to data transmission means for communication, for example, with a similar terminal. Each of the adapters includes a processor for processing the data received from or for application to a coupled device. A peripheral processing memory (16) is employed to store data to be transferred between the adapters. This memory is under the control of a peripheral processing controller (10) whi allocates memory blocks to the adapters under the control of CPU 20. Thus each adapter operates as a stand-alone unit sharing a common memory with the CPU and peripheral processing controller performing only system control functions.