What Is This Tool?
This tool converts between two ATA/IDE data transfer modes: IDE (DMA mode 0) and IDE (PIO mode 3). It supports legacy hardware configurations and performance comparisons by translating transfer rates from the DMA-based mode to the CPU-driven programmed I/O mode.
How to Use This Tool?
-
Enter the value in IDE (DMA mode 0) units you want to convert
-
Select IDE (PIO mode 3) as the target unit
-
Click the convert button to view the equivalent transfer rate
-
Use the results to compare or analyze legacy data transfer performance
Key Features
-
Converts data transfer units between IDE (DMA mode 0) and IDE (PIO mode 3)
-
Supports legacy ATA/IDE storage modes for technical and diagnostic use
-
Uses official ATA mode definitions to ensure meaningful results
-
Ideal for retrocomputing, system configuration, and hardware testing
-
Web-based and easy to use without special software
Examples
-
1 IDE (DMA mode 0) equals approximately 0.378 IDE (PIO mode 3)
-
10 IDE (DMA mode 0) equals approximately 3.784 IDE (PIO mode 3)
Common Use Cases
-
Configuring legacy desktop or laptop drives operating in low-speed DMA modes
-
Embedded or industrial systems requiring CPU-driven data transfer modes
-
Testing compatibility and comparing performance of older IDE storage devices
-
Retrocomputing projects involving ATA/IDE hardware diagnostics
-
OS or BIOS driver development for detecting IDE device transfer modes
Tips & Best Practices
-
Ensure the device mode matches the unit being converted for accurate comparisons
-
Use this tool when working with legacy or specialized hardware setups
-
Remember that real-world performance may differ due to CPU overhead and system conditions
-
Apply the conversion results for understanding theoretical maximum transfer capabilities
-
Combine with hardware diagnostics for comprehensive legacy system analysis
Limitations
-
Conversion reflects theoretical maximums without considering system overhead
-
PIO mode 3 consumes more CPU resources than DMA mode 0, reducing efficiency
-
Modern systems seldom use these modes, limiting the tool’s relevance to legacy contexts
-
Does not account for hardware-specific performance variations
-
Not suitable for contemporary storage technologies
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What does IDE (DMA mode 0) mean?
-
IDE (DMA mode 0) is the lowest-speed direct memory access transfer mode for ATA/IDE devices that allows data transfer directly to system memory without CPU-based I/O.
-
How does IDE (PIO mode 3) differ from DMA mode 0?
-
IDE (PIO mode 3) is a CPU-driven programmed I/O mode with a maximum theoretical throughput of around 11.1 MB/s, unlike DMA mode 0 which transfers data directly with less CPU involvement.
-
Why convert between these modes?
-
Users convert to compare data transfer rates, configure legacy systems, or conduct compatibility and performance testing on older ATA/IDE hardware.
Key Terminology
-
IDE (DMA mode 0)
-
The initial direct memory access transfer mode for ATA/IDE devices, enabling data transfer with minimal CPU involvement.
-
IDE (PIO mode 3)
-
A CPU-driven programmed I/O transfer mode for Parallel ATA storage devices with a theoretical max throughput near 11.1 MB/s.
-
ATA/IDE
-
A standard interface for connecting storage devices like hard drives and optical drives to computers.