What Is This Tool?
This tool enables conversion between two legacy IDE data transfer modes: IDE (PIO mode 2) and IDE (UDMA-66). It helps users interpret and compare transfer rates relevant for configuring older storage devices in vintage or legacy systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter a data transfer value in IDE (PIO mode 2) units
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Select IDE (PIO mode 2) as the source unit and IDE (UDMA-66) as the target unit
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Click convert to get the equivalent value in IDE (UDMA-66)
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Use the result to inform configuration or comparison of IDE transfer modes
Key Features
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Converts data transfer values between IDE (PIO mode 2) and IDE (UDMA-66)
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Supports analysis of legacy IDE drive performance and compatibility
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Provides examples for clear understanding of conversion results
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Browser-based and easy-to-use interface
Examples
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10 IDE (PIO mode 2) × 0.1257575758 = 1.257575758 IDE (UDMA-66)
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5 IDE (PIO mode 2) × 0.1257575758 = 0.628787879 IDE (UDMA-66)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring legacy BIOS or firmware drive timing settings for older IDE devices
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Diagnosing performance or compatibility on vintage PCs when switching from DMA to PIO mode
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Reading device driver reports on drive transfer modes
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Specifying or verifying burst throughput capabilities of PATA (IDE) storage
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Selecting transfer mode in BIOS or legacy operating systems
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Benchmark interpretation and troubleshooting IDE transfer errors
Tips & Best Practices
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Understand the distinction between CPU-driven PIO and burst-mode UDMA transfers
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Use this tool to compare historical transfer rates during vintage hardware tuning
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Confirm hardware and cable compatibility before attempting UDMA-66 configurations
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Refer to this conversion when interpreting driver or benchmark data related to IDE devices
Limitations
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Conversion values are theoretical and reflect maximum transfer rates only
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Actual transfer speeds depend on hardware quality, cable type, and system environment
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PIO mode 2 is much slower and less efficient compared to UDMA-66
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Not all systems support UDMA-66 without hardware upgrades
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (PIO mode 2) mean?
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It is a legacy CPU-driven transfer mode specifying timing for older IDE drives using programmed input/output cycles.
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What is IDE (UDMA-66)?
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IDE (UDMA-66), also known as Ultra DMA Mode 4, defines a faster Parallel ATA transfer mode with a maximum theoretical rate of 66.7 MB/s.
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Why convert from IDE (PIO mode 2) to IDE (UDMA-66)?
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To compare or upgrade legacy transfer modes for better performance and compatibility in vintage or legacy IDE storage setups.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 2)
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A legacy CPU-driven transfer mode for IDE devices defining timing and maximum effective data transfer rates using programmed I/O.
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IDE (UDMA-66)
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Also called Ultra DMA Mode 4, a Parallel ATA transfer mode supporting burst transfers at up to 66.7 MB/s using an 80-conductor PATA cable.
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Burst Transfer
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A data transfer method where blocks of data move rapidly in bursts rather than one unit at a time.