What Is This Tool?
This unit converter allows you to convert data transfer rates between IDE (UDMA mode 1) and IDE (PIO mode 1), two transfer protocols used with legacy Parallel ATA (PATA) devices. It helps you compare throughput differences for vintage PCs and embedded systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (UDMA mode 1) units you want to convert
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Select IDE (PIO mode 1) as the target unit
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Click the convert button to obtain the equivalent value
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Use the conversion results to analyze transfer rates or troubleshoot devices
Key Features
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Converts data transfer units between IDE (UDMA mode 1) and IDE (PIO mode 1)
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Based on ATA/PATA standard-defined transfer modes for legacy storage devices
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Provides quick and accurate conversion using a defined conversion rate
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Supports troubleshooting and benchmarking of older PATA drives
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Browser-based and easy to use without installation
Examples
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2 IDE (UDMA mode 1) = 9.6153846154 IDE (PIO mode 1)
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0.5 IDE (UDMA mode 1) = 2.40384615385 IDE (PIO mode 1)
Common Use Cases
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Specifying or diagnosing BIOS or drive transfer settings on vintage PCs
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Benchmarking maximum throughput of older IDE hard disks and optical drives
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Troubleshooting cable or controller compatibility and data errors
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Configuring or debugging firmware and drivers requiring CPU-controlled transfers
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Maintaining industrial equipment and embedded systems using legacy PATA devices
Tips & Best Practices
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Verify hardware and cable quality to ensure accurate transfer rates
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Understand that PIO modes increase CPU overhead compared to UDMA modes
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Use this conversion to compare theoretical transfer speeds, not exact real-world rates
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Consider device-specific implementations when diagnosing performance
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Combine conversion insights with practical hardware tests for troubleshooting
Limitations
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Actual speeds may vary due to hardware state, cable quality, and controller compatibility
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PIO transfer modes have higher CPU load and lower efficiency than UDMA modes
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Theoretical maximum transfer rates don’t always match real-world throughput due to timing and error-checking
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is IDE (UDMA mode 1)?
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IDE (UDMA mode 1) is an Ultra DMA transfer mode for Parallel ATA devices providing a theoretical maximum transfer rate of about 25 MB/s, used mainly for older PATA drives.
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How does IDE (PIO mode 1) differ from UDMA modes?
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IDE (PIO mode 1) involves CPU-controlled data transfers with higher CPU overhead and lower throughput compared to DMA modes like UDMA.
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Why should I convert between IDE (UDMA mode 1) and IDE (PIO mode 1)?
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Converting helps compare transfer rates and diagnose or configure legacy devices where different transfer protocols affect performance and CPU load.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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An Ultra DMA transfer mode of the Parallel ATA interface offering a theoretical maximum transfer rate of about 25 MB/s used in older PATA devices.
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IDE (PIO mode 1)
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A Programmed Input/Output transfer mode where the CPU controls each data transfer cycle, resulting in higher CPU usage and lower throughput.
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PATA
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Parallel ATA, an interface standard for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives.