What Is This Tool?
This tool converts data transfer rates from IDE (PIO mode 4), a CPU-driven ATA storage timing mode, to modem (14.4k), representing dial-up modem speeds typically used over analog telephone lines.
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 input unit and modem (14.4k) as the output unit
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Click the convert button to see the equivalent modem (14.4k) value
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Review the result to understand approximate performance equivalence
Key Features
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Converts between IDE (PIO mode 4) and 14.4k modem data rates
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Supports legacy hardware performance comparison
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Browser-based and easy to use
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Helps translate internal ATA bus timing to external modem speeds
Examples
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1 IDE (PIO mode 4) equals 9222.22 modem (14.4k)
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0.5 IDE (PIO mode 4) equals 4611.11 modem (14.4k)
Common Use Cases
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Comparing legacy IDE drive transfer rates with dial-up modem speeds
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Diagnosing and configuring older PC or embedded systems
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Evaluating retro-computing hardware performance
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Studying telecommunication history and legacy system constraints
Tips & Best Practices
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Use this tool primarily for comparative assessment of legacy data rates
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Consider differences in protocols and units when interpreting results
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Apply results in contexts like vintage PC maintenance and legacy networking
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Remember the conversion reflects theoretical maxima, not real-world speeds
Limitations
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Conversion reflects theoretical maximum throughput, not actual transfer speeds
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IDE (PIO mode 4) timing is internal to the device, unlike external modem speeds
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Units differ (bytes per second vs. bits per second), affecting direct equivalence
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Signal quality and overhead may decrease effective real-world data rates
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (PIO mode 4) represent?
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IDE (PIO mode 4) is a timing mode where the CPU controls data transfers with a maximum theoretical throughput around 16.7 MB/s on ATA/IDE devices.
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What is a 14.4k modem?
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A 14.4k modem is a dial-up device that modulates digital data into analog signals to transfer data up to 14.4 kilobits per second over telephone lines.
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Why convert IDE (PIO mode 4) to modem (14.4k)?
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Users convert these units to compare legacy storage transfer performance to equivalent dial-up modem speeds, aiding assessments in retro or legacy system environments.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 4)
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A Programmed Input/Output timing mode where the CPU manages ATA/IDE data transfers with timing protocols defining transfer performance.
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14.4k Modem
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A dial-up device that transfers data up to 14.4 kbps over analog telephone lines by modulating and demodulating signals.
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Data Transfer Rate
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The speed at which data is transmitted from one device to another, measured here in IDE timing and modem bit rates.