What Is This Tool?
This converter helps transform data transfer rates from IDE (PIO mode 4), a CPU-driven timing mode for older ATA/IDE devices, to IDE (UDMA mode 1), a faster Ultra DMA transfer mode used in vintage parallel ATA interfaces. It aids in comparison, configuration, and benchmarking of legacy storage hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (PIO mode 4) units you wish to convert
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Select IDE (PIO mode 4) as the source unit
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Choose IDE (UDMA mode 1) as the target unit
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Click convert to get the corresponding transfer rate in IDE (UDMA mode 1)
Key Features
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Converts data transfer rates from IDE (PIO mode 4) to IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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Supports legacy ATA/IDE timing mode conversions
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Useful for benchmarking and troubleshooting older storage devices
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Browser-based and easy to use without additional software
Examples
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1 IDE (PIO mode 4) equals 0.664 IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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10 IDE (PIO mode 4) equals 6.64 IDE (UDMA mode 1)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring or diagnosing BIOS and driver settings on vintage PCs
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Benchmarking transfer speeds of legacy IDE storage devices
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Troubleshooting compatibility issues in retro-computing and embedded systems
Tips & Best Practices
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Use the converter to compare performance before upgrading legacy storage modes
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Ensure motherboard and controller support the selected mode for compatibility
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Apply conversions carefully since these modes reflect timing rather than actual data volume
Limitations
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Both IDE (PIO mode 4) and IDE (UDMA mode 1) are legacy timing modes limited to older hardware
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Theoretical throughput values do not necessarily reflect actual sustained speeds
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Conversion relates to transfer timing modes, not absolute data sizes
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Support depends on specific motherboard and controller compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (PIO mode 4) mean?
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IDE (PIO mode 4) is a CPU-controlled timing mode for ATA/IDE devices, representing an older method of data transfer with a maximum theoretical throughput around 16.7 MB/s.
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How is IDE (UDMA mode 1) different from IDE (PIO mode 4)?
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IDE (UDMA mode 1) is an Ultra DMA mode offering faster data transfer rates, approximately 25 MB/s, and includes error-checking and timing improvements over the CPU-driven PIO modes.
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Can I use this conversion for modern storage devices?
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No. These modes apply to legacy ATA/IDE hardware and timing configurations, mainly found in vintage or embedded systems.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 4)
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A Programmed Input/Output timing mode where the CPU manages data transfers directly for ATA/IDE devices, with a max theoretical throughput of about 16.7 MB/s.
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IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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An Ultra DMA transfer mode in ATA/IDE devices with a maximum theoretical raw transfer rate of about 25 MB/s, used for timing and error-checking.
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ATA/IDE
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A set of standards for connecting storage devices to computers, often associated with parallel ATA interfaces and legacy devices.