What Is This Tool?
This converter helps translate data transfer speeds from IDE (DMA mode 0), a low-speed disk memory transfer method used in older ATA devices, into modem (28.8k) speeds, which measure throughput over traditional telephone lines. It aids comparisons of legacy device performance with classic modem rates.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the data value in IDE (DMA mode 0) units.
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Select modem (28.8k) as the target unit.
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Click convert to see the equivalent modem speed.
Key Features
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Converts data transfer rates between IDE (DMA mode 0) and modem (28.8k)
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Based on a defined conversion rate according to ATA and modem specifications
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Useful for legacy computing and networking speed comparisons
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Provides a browser-based, easy-to-use interface for quick conversions
Examples
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1 IDE (DMA mode 0) equals 1166.67 modem (28.8k)
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0.5 IDE (DMA mode 0) equals 583.33 modem (28.8k)
Common Use Cases
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Comparing legacy PATA device speeds against dial-up modem rates
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Evaluating data transfer bottlenecks between storage devices and network modems
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Maintaining or upgrading older desktops or embedded systems with legacy interfaces
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Studying historical data communication methods and throughput
Tips & Best Practices
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Remember that IDE (DMA mode 0) is disk-to-memory transfer speed, while modem (28.8k) is network line throughput
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Use conversions to get approximate performance comparisons, not exact equivalences
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Consider system context such as network latency and protocol overhead when comparing speeds
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Apply this conversion when analyzing legacy systems and historical data transfer rates
Limitations
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IDE (DMA mode 0) and modem (28.8k) measure fundamentally different transfer types
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Modem throughput is affected by external factors like line quality and latency
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Conversion applies specifically to IDE’s lowest DMA mode and analog modem speeds
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Due to differing transfer contexts, exact speed equivalence may not reflect real-world performance
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (DMA mode 0) represent?
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IDE (DMA mode 0) is the first and slowest DMA transfer mode for ATA/IDE devices, specifying how data moves directly into system memory without CPU involvement.
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What is modem (28.8k) used to describe?
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Modem (28.8k) denotes a data transfer rate of approximately 28,800 bits per second, typical of classic dial-up modem throughput over analog telephone lines.
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Why convert IDE (DMA mode 0) speeds to modem (28.8k)?
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Converting helps compare performance of legacy PATA drives against dial-up modem speeds to assess data transfer bottlenecks and system capabilities.
Key Terminology
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IDE (DMA mode 0)
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The slowest direct memory access transfer mode for ATA/IDE devices, moving data blocks directly into system memory without CPU-driven input/output.
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Modem (28.8k)
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A measure of data transfer speed roughly equal to 28,800 bits per second, representing throughput of a classic dial-up modem over analog lines.
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Data Transfer Rate
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The speed at which data is transmitted from one device or medium to another, such as from disk to memory or over telephone lines.