What Is This Tool?
This tool allows you to convert data transfer values between IDE (UDMA mode 4), also known as Ultra DMA/66, and IDE (UDMA mode 2), also referred to as ATA/33, two legacy Parallel ATA data transfer modes used in older PC hardware. It helps users interpret and compare transfer rates within legacy PATA systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the data transfer value in IDE (UDMA mode 4)
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Select IDE (UDMA mode 4) as the original unit
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Choose IDE (UDMA mode 2) as the target unit
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Click convert to see the equivalent rate in IDE (UDMA mode 2)
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Use the results to compare or analyze legacy PATA transfer modes
Key Features
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Converts between IDE (UDMA mode 4) and IDE (UDMA mode 2) transfer rates
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Supports legacy Parallel ATA transfer mode conversions
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Simplifies comparison of data rates for troubleshooting and configuration
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Browser-based and easy to use without installation
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Provides clear conversion examples for user reference
Examples
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1 IDE (UDMA mode 4) equals 2 IDE (UDMA mode 2)
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3 IDE (UDMA mode 4) equals 6 IDE (UDMA mode 2)
Common Use Cases
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Configuring or troubleshooting DMA mode settings in BIOS for legacy desktop systems
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Comparing legacy disk throughput or benchmarks within older PC systems
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Maintaining or recovering data from PATA/IDE drives in computing repair scenarios
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Diagnosing compatibility or driver issues related to device transfer modes
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Interpreting transfer rates for embedded systems using older Parallel ATA devices
Tips & Best Practices
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Confirm hardware supports the intended UDMA mode for reliable results
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Use an 80-conductor IDE cable for IDE (UDMA mode 4) to ensure signal integrity
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Verify BIOS or firmware settings align with desired transfer mode
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Consider real-world factors that may affect actual transfer speeds
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Cross-check device specifications when troubleshooting mode negotiation issues
Limitations
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Conversion reflects theoretical maximum throughput rates only
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Actual transfer speeds can differ due to hardware and cable quality
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Compatibility and firmware restrictions might limit device operation modes
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Not suitable for modern storage devices or non-PATA interfaces
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is IDE (UDMA mode 4)?
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IDE (UDMA mode 4), also called Ultra DMA/66 (ATA-4), is a Parallel ATA transfer mode using Ultra DMA protocol with max theoretical throughput of about 66.7 MB/s, requiring an 80-conductor IDE cable.
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What does IDE (UDMA mode 2) signify?
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IDE (UDMA mode 2), or ATA/33, is an Ultra DMA mode for PATA interfaces with a maximum theoretical transfer rate of about 33.3 MB/s, representing a timing profile for reliable data exchange in legacy systems.
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Why convert from IDE (UDMA mode 4) to IDE (UDMA mode 2)?
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Users convert to compare and interpret transfer rates between different PATA DMA modes, especially when troubleshooting or configuring legacy PCs where hardware or BIOS settings restrict the transfer mode.
Key Terminology
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IDE (UDMA mode 4)
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A Parallel ATA transfer mode known as Ultra DMA/66 (ATA-4) with max theoretical throughput of about 66.7 MB/s using an 80-conductor IDE cable.
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IDE (UDMA mode 2)
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An Ultra DMA mode for PATA interfaces called ATA/33 that provides around 33.3 MB/s maximum theoretical transfer rate with a specific signaling profile.
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Ultra DMA
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Ultra Direct Memory Access protocol used in Parallel ATA interfaces to transfer blocks of data efficiently between drives and hosts.