Frequently Asked Questions About PCI-Express x1 FireWire 400 Expansion Cards
FireWire connectors can add functionality to your computer. By installing a PCI-Express (PCIe) expansion card, you can upgrade your PC with FireWire 400 capability and begin transferring data to and from connected devices on a peer-to-peer network. The IEEE 1394 protocol supports plug-and-play connectivity and hot-swappable device connections.
What is a PCI Express x1 slot?
The x1 form factor is a low-profile version of the PCIe connector type. The controller card fits into a 1-inch slot that positions the FireWire connectors on the exterior of the PC case. PCIe technology supports a high-speed system bus with a low pin count and a small physical size. This type of expansion slot is used in all types of motherboards to conserve space and to maximize the number of input and output connections.
What is FireWire 400 data transfer protocol?
FireWire is a data transfer technology used by a wide range of device manufacturers to take advantage of the features it offers. It can transfer data at speeds ranging from 100 to 400 Mbps between as many as 16 connected devices. By attaching devices together in a daisy chain, the data can be transferred across a much greater distance than is otherwise possible. Whether the chain is connected using FireWire devices or data hubs, the signal is repeated and sent to subsequent nodes in the chain until it reaches the last node.
What types of devices are compatible with FireWire 400?
Many types of devices are designed to work with this technology. It’s compatible with all versions of Windows, Mac OS X, and Unix-like operating systems developed after 1995. FireWire-capable devices don’t need to be connected to a computer in order to communicate with each other. The peer-to-peer networking technology allows devices to transfer data without draining power or using memory from your PC. Some types of devices that work with FireWire include:
- Camcorders
- Printers
- Memory cards and adapters
- Audio mixers
- External hard drives
What are the hardware requirements for using FireWire?
In order to use a FireWire card, your motherboard must have an available PCIe x1 slot. You need to have a 6-pin-to-6-pin or 6-pin-to-4-pin cable, depending on the type of device you’re connecting to your computer. You also must have enough free FireWire ports and cables to handle all the connections of your daisy chain.
What is a low-profile bracket?
Low-profile serial bus expansion cards enable you to increase the functionality of your PC without exceeding the space constraints of your case. A low-profile bracket has a small physical footprint while providing the same data transfer speeds and consistency of larger PCIe expansion cards.