What Is This Tool?
This converter enables conversions between IDE (DMA mode 0) and IDE (PIO mode 1), two distinct data transfer modes used in legacy ATA/IDE (PATA) devices. It helps understand and translate transfer rates when switching between direct memory access and CPU-controlled programmed I/O methods.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the data value in IDE (DMA mode 0) units
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Select IDE (PIO mode 1) as the target unit
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Click the convert button to see the equivalent value
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Use the result to assist with system setup or analysis involving legacy PATA devices
Key Features
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Converts data transfer rates between IDE (DMA mode 0) and IDE (PIO mode 1)
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Supports legacy ATA/IDE (PATA) protocols used in vintage and industrial systems
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Browser-based, easy-to-use interface for quick calculations
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Helps in hardware configuration, firmware development, and diagnostics
Examples
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1 IDE (DMA mode 0) equals 0.8077 IDE (PIO mode 1)
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5 IDE (DMA mode 0) converts to 4.0385 IDE (PIO mode 1)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring BIOS or OS device drivers for IDE hard drives with different transfer modes
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Maintaining or repairing vintage PCs and embedded industrial equipment using PATA interfaces
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Developing or debugging firmware that requires switching between DMA and PIO modes
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Benchmarking data transfer performance on legacy hardware
Tips & Best Practices
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Verify the hardware supports the intended transfer mode before conversion
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Use this tool for legacy ATA/IDE devices rather than modern SATA or NVMe systems
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Consider CPU overhead differences when interpreting converted values
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Consult device documentation to understand mode restrictions during system setup
Limitations
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Applicable only to legacy ATA/IDE (PATA) protocols, not newer storage standards
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Conversion does not reflect actual throughput performance differences
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Hardware or firmware may restrict or prevent switching between these modes
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is IDE (DMA mode 0)?
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IDE (DMA mode 0) is the lowest-speed direct memory access mode for ATA/IDE devices that transfers data directly to system memory with minimal CPU involvement.
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What is IDE (PIO mode 1)?
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IDE (PIO mode 1) is a programmed input/output mode where the CPU manages each data transfer cycle, resulting in higher CPU usage compared to DMA modes.
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Why convert between IDE (DMA mode 0) and IDE (PIO mode 1)?
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Conversion assists with configuring device drivers, hardware diagnostics, and compatibility in legacy systems that switch between DMA and PIO transfer protocols.
Key Terminology
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IDE (DMA mode 0)
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A basic direct memory access transfer mode allowing ATA/IDE devices to move data directly into system memory with minimal CPU intervention.
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IDE (PIO mode 1)
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A programmed input/output transfer mode where the CPU controls each data transfer, resulting in higher CPU overhead.
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ATA/IDE (PATA)
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An older interface standard for connecting storage devices, using parallel communication protocols.