What Is This Tool?
This converter helps translate data transfer values from IDE (DMA mode 2) to IDE (UDMA-66), enabling users to compare and understand different legacy PATA transfer modes used in older computer hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (DMA mode 2) units you want to convert
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Select IDE (UDMA-66) as the target unit
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Click the convert button to get the equivalent value in IDE (UDMA-66)
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Use the result to evaluate data transfer performance or compatibility
Key Features
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Converts values between IDE (DMA mode 2) and IDE (UDMA-66) data transfer units
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Supports legacy PATA/IDE transfer mode comparisons
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Simple web-based interface for quick conversions
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Useful for configuring or diagnosing older IDE hard drives and optical drives
Examples
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1 IDE (DMA mode 2) converts approximately to 0.2515 IDE (UDMA-66)
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4 IDE (DMA mode 2) equals about 1.006 IDE (UDMA-66), calculated as 4 × 0.2515151515
Common Use Cases
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Configuring legacy PATA hard drives using DMA to improve transfer speeds
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Firmware or BIOS setup to select appropriate IDE transfer modes for compatibility
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Benchmarking and troubleshooting legacy IDE storage via transfer mode diagnostics
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Understanding burst throughput capabilities of older PATA devices
Tips & Best Practices
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Ensure hardware and controllers support the chosen IDE transfer modes
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Use appropriate 80-conductor PATA cables when working with UDMA-66 mode
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Consider device and system limitations when interpreting transfer rates
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Use this converter to aid legacy system maintenance and driver development
Limitations
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Both IDE (DMA mode 2) and IDE (UDMA-66) are outdated compared to modern SATA and NVMe standards
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Actual throughput may vary due to hardware, cabling quality, and controller capabilities
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Conversion only applies to legacy PATA/IDE systems with the required hardware and cabling
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is IDE (DMA mode 2)?
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IDE (DMA mode 2) is a Parallel ATA data transfer mode that allows direct memory access with less CPU usage, used in older PATA/IDE storage devices.
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What defines IDE (UDMA-66)?
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IDE (UDMA-66), also known as Ultra DMA Mode 4 or ATA-66, is a Parallel ATA mode offering higher transfer rates and requires an 80-conductor cable.
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Why convert between these two modes?
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Converting helps compare performance and configure legacy drives or systems to ensure optimal data transfer settings and compatibility.
Key Terminology
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IDE (DMA mode 2)
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A legacy Parallel ATA mode allowing Multiword DMA Mode 2 data transfers with minimal CPU load on IDE devices.
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IDE (UDMA-66)
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A legacy Parallel ATA Ultra DMA mode (Mode 4) defining a max raw data rate of 66.7 MB/s, requiring an 80-conductor cable.
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PATA
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Parallel ATA, an older interface standard for connecting storage devices before SATA.