What Is This Tool?
This unit converter allows you to convert data transfer values from IDE (UDMA mode 4) to IDE (UDMA mode 3), two types of Parallel ATA Ultra DMA modes used in legacy PATA/IDE storage devices. It supports configuring and comparing different transfer rates for older computer hardware.
How to Use This Tool?
-
Enter the data transfer value in IDE (UDMA mode 4) units
-
Select IDE (UDMA mode 3) as the target unit
-
Click convert to see the equivalent data transfer in IDE (UDMA mode 3)
-
Use the results to adjust or compare transfer rates for legacy hardware
Key Features
-
Converts between IDE (UDMA mode 4) and IDE (UDMA mode 3) data transfer units
-
Supports comparisons of legacy Parallel ATA transfer modes
-
Useful for configuring DMA settings on older PCs and embedded systems
-
Browser-based and easy to use without software installation
Examples
-
1 IDE (UDMA mode 4) equals 1.32 IDE (UDMA mode 3)
-
5 IDE (UDMA mode 4) converts to 6.6 IDE (UDMA mode 3)
Common Use Cases
-
Configuring or troubleshooting DMA modes in BIOS on older desktop or embedded systems
-
Benchmarking and maintaining legacy PATA/IDE hard drives and optical drives
-
Comparing transfer modes to ensure compatibility and performance in legacy hardware
-
Assisting data recovery from older IDE storage devices
Tips & Best Practices
-
Verify the cable type is suitable for the transfer mode to ensure reliable signaling
-
Use this conversion to set appropriate transfer modes in BIOS or drive firmware
-
Cross-check conversion results to troubleshoot or refurbish legacy systems effectively
-
Be mindful of system-specific configurations that impact actual throughput
Limitations
-
Transfer rates indicated are theoretical maximums; actual speeds depend on hardware and environment
-
Only applicable to legacy PATA/IDE devices and obsolete interfaces
-
Cable quality and system configuration can affect signaling reliability and throughput
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is IDE (UDMA mode 4)?
-
IDE (UDMA mode 4), also called Ultra DMA/66, is a Parallel ATA transfer mode providing up to 66.7 MB/s throughput, requiring an 80-conductor IDE cable for proper operation.
-
Why convert from IDE (UDMA mode 4) to IDE (UDMA mode 3)?
-
Users convert to compare or configure transfer rates between legacy Ultra DMA modes, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance in systems supporting multiple DMA speeds.
-
Are these transfer modes still used in modern systems?
-
No, these modes apply mainly to legacy PATA/IDE devices and are largely obsolete in modern computer hardware.
Key Terminology
-
IDE (UDMA mode 4)
-
A Parallel ATA transfer mode called Ultra DMA/66 with a maximum throughput of about 66.7 MB/s requiring an 80-conductor cable.
-
IDE (UDMA mode 3)
-
An Ultra DMA transfer mode for Parallel ATA with about 44.4 MB/s maximum transfer rate, used in legacy PATA/IDE devices.
-
Ultra DMA
-
A protocol for transferring data between a drive and a host with minimal CPU involvement via direct memory access.