What Is This Tool?
This tool converts data transfer rates between two legacy IDE timing modes: IDE (UDMA mode 2) and IDE (PIO mode 4). It helps users compare and understand the differences in transfer speeds for ATA/IDE interfaces commonly used in older hardware systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in IDE (UDMA mode 2) you wish to convert.
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Select IDE (PIO mode 4) as the target unit for conversion.
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Run the calculation to see the equivalent transfer rate in IDE (PIO mode 4).
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Interpret results to compare legacy ATA timing modes effectively.
Key Features
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Convert between IDE (UDMA mode 2) and IDE (PIO mode 4) transfer rates accurately.
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Useful for legacy PC hardware configurations and troubleshooting.
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Provides conversion based on theoretical maximum throughput values.
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Supports benchmarking and performance comparisons of older storage devices.
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Browser-based and easy to use without any installations.
Examples
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1 IDE (UDMA mode 2) equals approximately 1.9879518072 IDE (PIO mode 4).
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5 IDE (UDMA mode 2) converts to about 9.939759036 IDE (PIO mode 4).
Common Use Cases
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Configuring older PC BIOS or drive-controller settings for legacy ATA devices.
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Benchmarking and comparing legacy storage device performances.
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Troubleshooting compatibility issues on systems using ATA timing modes.
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Supporting embedded systems or industrial applications relying on PATA interfaces.
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Analyzing retro-computing hardware based on historical transfer modes.
Tips & Best Practices
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Verify device mode compatibility before applying conversion results.
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Use the tool for theoretical comparisons rather than actual throughput guarantees.
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Consider context such as firmware and hardware conditions when interpreting results.
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Apply conversions carefully in legacy system maintenance and diagnostics.
Limitations
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Conversion is based on theoretical maximum transfer speeds, not real-world sustained rates.
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Results apply only to legacy PATA/IDE technologies, not modern SATA or NVMe devices.
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Accuracy assumes devices strictly use the specified timing modes without additional modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does IDE (UDMA mode 2) represent?
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IDE (UDMA mode 2) is an Ultra DMA transfer mode for Parallel ATA interfaces offering about 33.3 MB/s maximum transfer rate, commonly known as ATA/33.
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How does IDE (PIO mode 4) differ from UDMA modes?
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IDE (PIO mode 4) is a CPU-driven transfer mode characterized by different timing and handshaking, with a lower maximum throughput of roughly 16.7 MB/s.
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Why convert between these two modes?
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Converting helps compare transfer rates, troubleshoot legacy hardware issues, and configure system BIOS or drivers using older ATA timing standards.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA mode 2)
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An Ultra DMA transfer mode for legacy Parallel ATA interfaces providing a theoretical maximum of about 33.3 MB/s data transfer.
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IDE (PIO mode 4)
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A CPU-controlled Programmed Input/Output mode for IDE storage devices with a theoretical throughput near 16.7 MB/s.
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ATA/IDE
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An older interface standard for connecting storage devices, including Parallel ATA and IDE drives in legacy computing systems.