ATA types

[brian5258]

I have an older computer that i believe has either an ATA-2 or 3 interface. Either way they both run at 33MBps. Are newer ATA devices (anthing >ATA-3) compatible with lower ones and just run at a lower speed? I'm talking about a hard drive in particular if that makes a difference.

[sechs]

These aren't ATA types, but standards. Each ATA level is backwards compatible to the previous ones; so, yes, newer drives will work, but just at the speed of your bus.

[brian5258]

k thanks

[brian5258]

what about the cables, will i need to upgrade my ide cable? if it's not necessary, but i decide to upgrade to rounded ide cables, can that cause compatibility problems?

[sechs]

The parallel ATA specifications only call for two types of cables: 40-conductor (wire), 40-connector and 80-conductor, 40-connector. All are flat ribbon.

If you will not be running above ATA/33 speeds, then it doesn't substantively matter whether you use the 40- or 80- conductor cable (although, in theory, the 80 is better).

You use round cables at your own risk. While many people have used them without issue, they do not comply with the ATA specifications.