What Is This Tool?
This tool enables the conversion of data transfer rates between the legacy IDE (PIO mode 2) timing specification and the SCSI (Fast Wide) interface mode, useful for interpreting and comparing storage device performance across different technologies.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (PIO mode 2) units you want to convert
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Select IDE (PIO mode 2) as the source unit
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Choose SCSI (Fast Wide) as the target unit
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Click convert to see the equivalent transfer rate
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Use results for diagnostics, compatibility checks, or upgrade planning
Key Features
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Supports conversion between IDE (PIO mode 2) and SCSI (Fast Wide) data transfer units
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Provides a clear formula and example conversions
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Browser-based and easy to use for legacy hardware diagnostics
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Helps compare throughput for storage and peripheral devices
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Useful for vintage PC restoration and archival storage evaluation
Examples
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2 IDE (PIO mode 2) equals 0.83 SCSI (Fast Wide)
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5 IDE (PIO mode 2) equals 2.075 SCSI (Fast Wide)
Common Use Cases
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Interpreting legacy BIOS or firmware drive timings for older IDE devices
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Diagnosing performance issues when systems revert from DMA to PIO mode
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Evaluating throughput for vintage PC hardware restoration projects
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Planning upgrades or hardware compatibility involving IDE and SCSI storage
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Connecting tape drives, CD/DVD drives, or RAID controllers in legacy servers
Tips & Best Practices
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Use this converter for approximate comparisons rather than exact throughput measures
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Verify device and cable quality when evaluating actual transfer speeds
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Consult device negotiation settings to understand real-world performance
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Apply conversions primarily for legacy system diagnostics and planning
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Be aware that implementation specifics can affect actual data transfer rates
Limitations
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Real throughput varies due to factors like cable quality and bus termination
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Conversions are based on theoretical values and may not reflect practical speeds
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IDE (PIO mode 2) is a legacy protocol with restricted bandwidth
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This tool is most relevant for historical or diagnostic usage rather than modern applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (PIO mode 2) represent?
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It is a legacy ATA/IDE timing standard for programmed I/O data transfers used by older storage devices without Direct Memory Access.
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What is SCSI (Fast Wide)?
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SCSI (Fast Wide) is an interface mode combining fast 10 MHz timing with a 16-bit bus to achieve higher data transfer rates than original SCSI.
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Why convert from IDE (PIO mode 2) to SCSI (Fast Wide)?
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Converting helps compare legacy IDE timings to equivalent SCSI throughput for hardware diagnostics, compatibility, or upgrade planning.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 2)
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A legacy ATA/IDE interface timing defining CPU-driven programmed I/O data transfers between host and storage devices.
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SCSI (Fast Wide)
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A SCSI-2 mode combining fast 10 MHz signaling with a 16-bit data bus for improved device transfer rates.
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Programmed Input/Output (PIO)
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A method where the CPU controls data transfer between memory and devices without direct memory access.