What Is This Tool?
This tool allows you to convert data transfer rates from IDE (UDMA mode 0) to IDE (UDMA mode 4), helping users compare legacy PATA/IDE Ultra DMA modes commonly used in older computer hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
-
Enter the transfer rate value in IDE (UDMA mode 0) units
-
Select IDE (UDMA mode 0) as the source unit
-
Choose IDE (UDMA mode 4) as the target unit
-
Click the convert button to view the equivalent value
Key Features
-
Converts legacy IDE Ultra DMA mode 0 data rates to mode 4 equivalents
-
Helps diagnose and troubleshoot BIOS and device driver settings
-
Supports performance comparison for vintage PATA/IDE hardware
-
Browser-based and easy to use without installation
Examples
-
4 IDE (UDMA mode 0) is approximately 1.00606 IDE (UDMA mode 4)
-
10 IDE (UDMA mode 0) converts to about 2.51515 IDE (UDMA mode 4)
Common Use Cases
-
Specifying or diagnosing throughput limits in legacy PATA/IDE hard drives and optical devices
-
Configuring DMA timing settings in BIOS or device drivers
-
Comparing PATA/IDE Ultra DMA modes when upgrading or maintaining vintage PCs
-
Benchmarking older hardware and performing data recovery on legacy IDE devices
Tips & Best Practices
-
Verify the IDE cable quality, as IDE mode 4 requires an 80-conductor cable
-
Use this converter primarily for comparison and troubleshooting purposes
-
Consider device condition and system factors as they affect actual transfer speeds
-
Consult BIOS or driver documentation when adjusting DMA modes
Limitations
-
Real transfer speeds depend on device condition and system setup
-
IDE (UDMA mode 4) requires an 80-conductor cable for reliable operation
-
Theoretical maximum transfer rates may not reflect actual throughput
-
Compatibility problems can occur if modes or hardware are mixed incorrectly
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is IDE (UDMA mode 0)?
-
IDE (UDMA mode 0) is the original Ultra DMA transfer mode for Parallel ATA devices, offering a maximum raw data rate of about 16.7 MB/s.
-
Why convert IDE (UDMA mode 0) to IDE (UDMA mode 4)?
-
Conversion helps compare data transfer speeds between early and later Ultra DMA modes for accurate diagnostics and configuration of legacy hardware.
-
Does IDE (UDMA mode 4) require special hardware?
-
Yes, it requires an 80-conductor IDE cable to ensure reliable signaling at higher transfer speeds.
Key Terminology
-
IDE (UDMA mode 0)
-
Ultra DMA transfer mode 0 for PATA/IDE devices with a nominal max speed of about 16.7 MB/s.
-
IDE (UDMA mode 4)
-
Also called Ultra DMA/66, this PATA transfer mode has a max theoretical speed near 66.7 MB/s and requires an 80-conductor cable.
-
Ultra DMA
-
A protocol to transfer blocks of data efficiently between storage drives and host controllers in IDE interfaces.