SATA Drivers
SATA is a type of interface used to connect hard drives, controllers, and other devices to a computer's motherboard. SATA stands for Serial Advanced Technology Attachment. SATA is quickly replacing the older technology known as Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment, or Parallel ATA (PATA).
PATA interfaces feature bundled 40-wire cables up to 18 inches in length. These bulky cables often clogged the internal computer case and blocked air flow. In contrast, SATA uses thin cables with tiny, 7-pin connectors. These cables can be up to twice as long yet take up far less space. This key difference allows better air flow within the computer's case. Because of more demanding processors, keeping PCs cool is critical. SATA hard drives no longer need a "master-slave" relationship nor do they need drive jumpers. Installing SATA hard drives is far easier than installing PATA devices. Better yet, SATA technology allows for hot swapping – a technique where hard drives can be "swapped" without having to power down the PC. Another key advantage that SATA technology offers over PATA is a dramatically lower power requirement. Rather than the typical 5-volt requirement of PATA, SATA requires a fraction of that amount – just 250 mV. As more computer manufacturers move to more environmentally friendly designs, chip voltage requirements have fallen. SATA technology reflects this progression toward less power-hungry computer components. What about performance? PATA devices have a maximum transfer rate of 133 MBps while the introduction of SATA saw first generation transfer speeds of 150 MBps followed by 300MBps. The third generation of SATA drives transfer data at an astounding 600 MBps. Another SATA innovation includes built-in power which completely eliminates the need for an external power source Because SATA is relatively new, existing computers may have compatible motherboards. The good news for computer users who want a SATA drive but lack a SATA-compatible mother board is that third party SATA controllers are available. These controllers fit into an available PCI slot. Since SATA is likely to replace PATA, should the need arise for a new motherboard, consider selecting a SATA-compatible motherboard. Many new motherboards can handle both SATA and PATA. Where did SATA come from? Like many technologies, SATA is a specification that came about through collaboration. The SATA-IO (Serial ATA International Organization) was originally formed in 2004. This organization oversees the development and implementation of the open-industry SATA storage specification. » Download SATA Drivers |
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