What Is This Tool?
This tool allows you to convert data transfer measurements from IDE (PIO mode 3) to IDE (PIO mode 0). Both represent programmed I/O data transfer modes defined by ATA/IDE standards for legacy storage devices, facilitating compatibility and performance assessments.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value you want to convert in IDE (PIO mode 3) units.
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Select IDE (PIO mode 0) as the target unit for conversion.
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Click convert to see the equivalent transfer rate in IDE (PIO mode 0).
Key Features
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Converts data transfer rates between two legacy IDE programmed I/O modes.
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Uses established conversion factor based on theoretical maximum throughput.
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Suitable for retrocomputing, embedded systems, and hardware diagnostics.
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Browser-based and easy to use without requiring DMA knowledge.
Examples
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2 IDE (PIO mode 3) converts to approximately 6.727 IDE (PIO mode 0).
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0.5 IDE (PIO mode 3) converts to about 1.682 IDE (PIO mode 0).
Common Use Cases
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Testing compatibility and performance of legacy desktop or laptop drives.
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Performing diagnostics and data recovery on vintage IDE hardware.
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Developing embedded systems using older storage devices lacking DMA.
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Benchmarking data transfer capabilities between different PIO modes.
Tips & Best Practices
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Use this conversion for theoretical maximum throughput comparisons only.
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Apply conversions in contexts like retrocomputing or hardware maintenance.
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Remember that real-world transfer rates can vary from theoretical values.
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Verify your hardware supports the relevant PIO mode before testing.
Limitations
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Conversion reflects theoretical raw throughput, not real-world performance.
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Both PIO modes are CPU-driven and lack DMA, making them outdated.
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Actual transfer rates depend on hardware condition and CPU load.
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Not suitable for modern storage devices using more efficient modes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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 transfer mode for Parallel ATA devices, offering a maximum theoretical throughput of about 11.1 MB/s.
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Why convert IDE (PIO mode 3) to IDE (PIO mode 0)?
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Conversion helps compare data rates for legacy devices running different PIO modes, useful for compatibility and performance analysis.
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Are these conversions accurate for modern hardware?
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No, these conversions are theoretical and intended for older hardware; modern devices use more advanced transfer modes.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 3)
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A programmed I/O mode for ATA devices with CPU-driven data transfer and a maximum theoretical throughput of around 11.1 MB/s.
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IDE (PIO mode 0)
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The slowest standard CPU-driven ATA programmed I/O timing mode, with low theoretical throughput, used for compatibility with very old drives.
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Programmed I/O (PIO)
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A CPU-controlled data transfer method where the processor reads and writes device registers without using DMA.