What Is This Tool?
This tool converts values between IDE (UDMA-66) and IDE (UDMA mode 4), two identical Parallel ATA transfer modes that both define a maximum theoretical raw data rate of about 66.7 megabytes per second. It helps users compare specifications, configure BIOS settings, and troubleshoot legacy PATA/IDE storage devices.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the numerical value representing IDE (UDMA-66) units you want to convert
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Select IDE (UDMA-66) as the source unit and IDE (UDMA mode 4) as the target unit
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Click the convert button to get an equivalent value in IDE (UDMA mode 4)
Key Features
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Converts between IDE (UDMA-66) and IDE (UDMA mode 4) at a 1:1 ratio
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Supports data transfer mode conversions for legacy PATA/IDE hard drives and optical drives
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Browser-based and easy to use with no installation required
Examples
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5 IDE (UDMA-66) converts to 5 IDE (UDMA mode 4)
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10 IDE (UDMA-66) is equal to 10 IDE (UDMA mode 4)
Common Use Cases
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Specifying or checking the maximum burst throughput of older IDE/PATA drives
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Configuring drive transfer modes in BIOS or legacy operating systems
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Diagnosing transfer speeds or errors on legacy IDE systems
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Benchmarking or maintaining legacy storage devices from the late 1990s and early 2000s
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Data recovery involving PATA/IDE hard drives and optical drives
Tips & Best Practices
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Ensure hardware compatibility including an 80-conductor PATA cable and controller support
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Use this conversion when comparing or configuring legacy IDE device settings
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Combine with system BIOS configuration for consistent drive performance
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Recall that this conversion applies only to legacy IDE interfaces, not modern SATA or NVMe drives
Limitations
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Both units reflect theoretical maximum speeds; actual transfer rates may be lower due to hardware limitations or system overhead
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The conversion applies only to legacy IDE interfaces and is not suitable for modern storage technologies
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Requires compatible PATA cables and hardware support for reliable data transfer
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are IDE (UDMA-66) and IDE (UDMA mode 4) different units?
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No, both IDE (UDMA-66) and IDE (UDMA mode 4) represent the same Parallel ATA transfer mode with identical maximum data rates and require similar hardware support.
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What hardware is needed for reliable IDE (UDMA-66) transfers?
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An 80-conductor PATA cable and support from both the storage controller and device are necessary for proper IDE (UDMA-66) operation.
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Can this converter be used for modern SATA or NVMe drives?
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No, this tool is intended for legacy IDE interfaces only and does not apply to modern SATA or NVMe storage devices.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA-66)
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A Parallel ATA transfer mode also known as Ultra DMA Mode 4 or ATA-66, defining a maximum theoretical data rate of 66.7 MB/s, requiring an 80-conductor PATA cable.
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IDE (UDMA mode 4)
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A Parallel ATA transfer mode in the IDE/ATA standard using Ultra DMA protocol with maximum throughput around 66.7 MB/s, requiring an 80-conductor IDE cable.
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PATA cable
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A Parallel ATA ribbon cable used to connect storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives in legacy computer systems.