What Is This Tool?
This online converter transforms data transfer values between two legacy ATA/IDE modes: IDE (UDMA mode 1) and IDE (PIO mode 4). It is designed to aid vintage computing and embedded systems users in comparing and configuring older storage devices.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the data transfer value in IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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Select IDE (UDMA mode 1) as the source unit
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Select IDE (PIO mode 4) as the target unit
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Click convert to see the equivalent IDE (PIO mode 4) value
Key Features
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Converts transfer rates from IDE (UDMA mode 1) to IDE (PIO mode 4)
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Supports legacy Parallel ATA (PATA) interface modes
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Provides conversions useful for benchmarking and troubleshooting
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Accessible via any modern web browser without installation
Examples
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1 IDE (UDMA mode 1) equals approximately 1.506 IDE (PIO mode 4)
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2 IDE (UDMA mode 1) equals approximately 3.012 IDE (PIO mode 4)
Common Use Cases
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Specifying or diagnosing BIOS and drive transfer settings on vintage PCs
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Benchmarking performance of older IDE hard disks or optical drives
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Troubleshooting compatibility and data errors with legacy ATA controllers
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Configuring embedded systems using historical ATA timing modes
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Comparing legacy storage device throughput for upgrade assessment
Tips & Best Practices
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Verify that devices use Parallel ATA interfaces before converting
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Use conversions for comparative and diagnostic purposes only
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Recognize that real transfer speeds depend on hardware and system setup
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Consult device documentation when adjusting BIOS or driver IDE modes
Limitations
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Theoretical maximum transfer rates may differ from real-world results
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Conversion applies only to older PATA devices, not to modern SATA or PCIe storage
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Both modes reflect legacy standards and are considered obsolete today
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, offering a theoretical maximum transfer speed of about 25 MB/s for legacy PATA drives.
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How does IDE (PIO mode 4) differ from IDE (UDMA mode 1)?
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IDE (PIO mode 4) is a CPU-driven programmed I/O timing mode with a lower theoretical transfer rate around 16.7 MB/s, focusing on direct CPU control rather than DMA.
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Why convert between these two IDE modes?
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Converting between IDE (UDMA mode 1) and IDE (PIO mode 4) helps users compare legacy transfer speeds, diagnose BIOS settings, and troubleshoot hardware compatibility for older ATA devices.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA mode 1)
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An Ultra DMA transfer mode for older Parallel ATA devices with a maximum theoretical rate near 25 MB/s, used for timing and error control in PATA interfaces.
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IDE (PIO mode 4)
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A Programmed Input/Output timing mode where the CPU directly controls data transfers, featuring a maximum theoretical throughput around 16.7 MB/s for ATA/IDE devices.
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PATA
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Parallel ATA, an older interface standard for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives.