What Is This Tool?
This converter allows you to transform data transfer values from IDE (DMA mode 2), a high-throughput DMA transfer mode in legacy PATA/IDE devices, to IDE (PIO mode 3), a CPU-driven programmed I/O transfer mode. It is useful for comparing and diagnosing transfer modes in older storage hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (DMA mode 2) units you wish to convert
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Select IDE (PIO mode 3) 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 analyze and compare data transfer performance
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Repeat as needed for different values or settings
Key Features
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Converts data transfer units between IDE (DMA mode 2) and IDE (PIO mode 3)
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Supports legacy PATA/IDE interface standards
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Facilitates performance comparison between DMA and PIO modes
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Browser-based and easy to use
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Helps in firmware, driver configuration, and troubleshooting
Examples
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1 IDE (DMA mode 2) equals approximately 1.50 IDE (PIO mode 3)
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2 IDE (DMA mode 2) equal approximately 2.99 IDE (PIO mode 3)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring or diagnosing legacy PATA/IDE hard drives and optical drives
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Firmware or BIOS mode negotiation for older IDE devices
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Benchmarking and troubleshooting storage interfaces on legacy systems
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Compatibility testing and retrocomputing applications
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Embedded or industrial systems maintenance with older hardware
Tips & Best Practices
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Understand which transfer mode your device is using before converting
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Use conversion results to balance CPU overhead and transfer speed
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Consider conversion values as part of broader performance diagnostics
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Confirm device compatibility with IDE (DMA mode 2) or IDE (PIO mode 3)
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Apply conversions mainly to legacy PATA/IDE interfaces, not modern devices
Limitations
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Applicable only to legacy Parallel ATA/IDE standards, not SATA or NVMe
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Theoretical throughput values may vary due to hardware and system factors
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Conversion does not account for latency or error rates in transfers
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Does not reflect all aspects of device or system performance
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Use results as a general guide, not precise measurement
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (DMA mode 2) mean?
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IDE (DMA mode 2) is a data transfer mode for legacy PATA/IDE devices that moves data directly with minimal CPU use, improving throughput compared to PIO modes.
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What is IDE (PIO mode 3)?
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IDE (PIO mode 3) is a CPU-driven programmed I/O mode for Parallel ATA/IDE devices with a maximum transfer rate of about 11.1 MB/s.
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Why would I convert between these modes?
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Converting between these modes helps compare performance characteristics, diagnose transfer configurations, and optimize legacy device settings.
Key Terminology
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IDE (DMA mode 2)
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A legacy Parallel ATA data transfer mode that uses Direct Memory Access to reduce CPU usage and increase throughput.
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IDE (PIO mode 3)
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A programmed I/O transfer mode where the CPU manages data transfer for Parallel ATA devices, offering lower throughput.
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PATA/IDE
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Parallel ATA or Integrated Drive Electronics, an older interface standard for connecting storage devices.