What Is This Tool?
This converter translates the data transfer rate defined by IDE (PIO mode 4), a CPU-driven ATA/IDE timing mode, into the equivalent rate of a 28.8k modem connection, enabling comparisons between legacy storage device speeds and classic dial-up modem throughput.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the IDE (PIO mode 4) value you want to convert
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Select the source unit as IDE (PIO mode 4)
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Choose modem (28.8k) as the target unit
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Click convert to see the corresponding modem speed
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Use results to compare legacy device performance or estimate transfer times
Key Features
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Converts between IDE (PIO mode 4) and modem (28.8k) data transfer rates
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Browser-based and easy to use for quick throughput comparisons
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Supports benchmarking and performance estimation for legacy systems
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Helps understand transfer speed equivalences between storage interfaces and modem links
Examples
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1 IDE (PIO mode 4) equals approximately 4611.11 modem (28.8k)
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2 IDE (PIO mode 4) convert to about 9222.22 modem (28.8k)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring or diagnosing older ATA/IDE drives in legacy or embedded systems
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Benchmarking performance of legacy storage devices against modem data rates
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Ensuring compatibility in retro-computing or industrial environments using historical ATA timing modes
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Estimating download times on classic dial-up connections
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Comparing throughput limits for small data transfers over analog lines
Tips & Best Practices
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Use this converter primarily for theoretical speed comparison purposes
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Consider variability in real-world performance due to CPU and signal conditions
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Apply results for educational, benchmarking, or retro-computing analysis
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Remember the conversion reflects maximum throughput values, not actual sustained speeds
Limitations
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Conversion is theoretical, based on maximum throughput values
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Actual speeds may differ due to CPU load, signal noise, and protocol inefficiencies
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Does not account for overhead like error correction or handshaking delays
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (PIO mode 4) represent?
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IDE (PIO mode 4) is a CPU-controlled ATA/IDE data transfer timing mode with a maximum theoretical throughput of about 16.7 MB/s, defining timing and handshaking between host and drive.
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What is modem (28.8k)?
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Modem (28.8k) refers to a data transfer rate of approximately 28,800 bits per second, typical of classic 28.8k dial-up modem connections over analog phone lines.
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Why convert between IDE (PIO mode 4) and modem (28.8k)?
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Converting helps compare throughput of legacy storage device interfaces with classic dial-up modem speeds, useful in diagnostics, benchmarking, and retro-computing contexts.
Key Terminology
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IDE (PIO mode 4)
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A Programmed Input/Output timing mode where the CPU directly controls ATA/IDE device data transfers with defined timing and handshaking.
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modem (28.8k)
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An informal term for a data transfer speed of about 28,800 bits per second, typical of classic analog dial-up modems.
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Throughput
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The amount of data transferred over a connection or interface per unit time.