What Is This Tool?
This tool converts data transfer units from IDE (UDMA mode 2), a fast Ultra DMA mode for legacy PATA devices, to IDE (PIO mode 1), a slower CPU-controlled transfer mode. It helps understand performance differences in older hardware setups.
How to Use This Tool?
-
Enter the numerical value in IDE (UDMA mode 2) you want to convert
-
Select IDE (PIO mode 1) as the target unit
-
Click convert to see the equivalent value in IDE (PIO mode 1)
-
Use the converted result to analyze or configure legacy hardware
Key Features
-
Converts between IDE (UDMA mode 2) and IDE (PIO mode 1) data transfer modes
-
Provides straightforward conversion for legacy PATA interface settings
-
Supports hardware performance comparison and troubleshooting
-
Browser-based and easy to use without installation
Examples
-
1 IDE (UDMA mode 2) equals 6.3461538462 IDE (PIO mode 1)
-
2 IDE (UDMA mode 2) equals 12.6923076924 IDE (PIO mode 1)
Common Use Cases
-
Configuring or identifying legacy PC BIOS and drive-controller transfer settings
-
Benchmarking older hard drives and optical drives for transfer speeds
-
Troubleshooting compatibility and firmware issues on PATA systems
-
Developing or debugging firmware requiring CPU-driven transfer modes
-
Measuring data transfer on vintage or embedded systems using PIO mode
Tips & Best Practices
-
Verify the legacy PATA hardware supports the transfer mode before conversion
-
Use conversions to understand relative performance rather than exact speeds
-
Consider higher CPU utilization effects when working with PIO modes
-
Apply results primarily for legacy systems, not modern SATA or NVMe devices
Limitations
-
Conversion rates represent theoretical maximum speeds, actual may vary
-
PIO modes use more CPU resources affecting system responsiveness
-
Only applicable for legacy PATA/IDE interfaces, not newer technologies
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What does IDE (UDMA mode 2) mean?
-
It is an Ultra DMA transfer mode for PATA devices providing a maximum theoretical transfer rate of about 33.3 megabytes per second.
-
Why is IDE (PIO mode 1) slower than IDE (UDMA mode 2)?
-
Because PIO mode requires the CPU to control each transfer cycle, resulting in higher CPU overhead and lower throughput compared to DMA modes.
-
Can this conversion be used for SATA or NVMe devices?
-
No, this conversion only applies to legacy PATA/IDE interfaces and does not reflect transfer rates of newer SATA or NVMe devices.
Key Terminology
-
IDE (UDMA mode 2)
-
An Ultra DMA transfer mode for Parallel ATA interfaces with a maximum theoretical transfer rate around 33.3 MB/s.
-
IDE (PIO mode 1)
-
A Programmed Input/Output transfer mode where the CPU controls data transfers, resulting in lower throughput and higher CPU usage.
-
PATA
-
Parallel ATA, a legacy interface standard for connecting storage devices like hard drives and optical drives.