What is FireWire 800 and How It Stands the Test of Time

FireWire 800, also known as IEEE 1394, is an obsolete port used in older Mac computers. Although it was initially popular, it has been replaced by newer technologies like Thunderbolt. Despite this, FireWire 800 still holds a special place in the world of computer peripherals, offering unique advantages and compatibility options.

Introduction to FireWire 800

FireWire, a another port in your computer, was designed to connect a wide range of external devices. With the advent of FireWire 800, it began to be popular among power users and professionals. Back in the day, FireWire 800 operated at 800MB/s, which was faster than the USB 2.0 standard of 480MB/s.

Historical Context and Usage

FireWire 800 significantly outperformed USB 2.0, making it a preferred choice for high-speed data transfer and sophisticated devices. These included external hard drives, sound cards for multi-channel audio interfaces, and video capture devices. One of its key advantages was its ability to use a daisy chain connection, where multiple devices could be connected via a single port, sharing the same high-speed link.

Legacy and Current Relevance

Despite its age, FireWire 800 remains relevant in today's computing landscape, particularly for legacy applications. It is possible to adapt it using Apple adapters, enabling the use of older FireWire 800 devices with newer Thunderbolt 2 and Thunderbolt 3 computers. This compatibility has allowed users to continue benefiting from top-notch devices, such as studio sound cards, at a lower cost.

Comparison with Other Standards

While FireWire 800 was a significant improvement over its predecessors, newer standards like USB have further outpaced it in performance and versatility. USB 2.0, the most recent prevalent standard, operates at 480MB/s. In contrast, the more advanced USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 operate at blazing speeds of 5GB/s and 10GB/s respectively. These newer standards have also introduced new connector types, such as USB-C.

FireWire Standards

FireWire 800 operates at a maximum speed of 800MB/s (100MB/s), while FireWire 400, also known as IEEE 1394a, operates at 400MB/s (50MB/s). These standards were commonly used for external storage and audio interfaces. FireWire 800 and 400 remained popular in their respective eras due to their ability to handle high data throughput and low latency, which was crucial for audio and video recording applications.

Conclusion

While FireWire 800 is no longer a prominent technology in today's computer landscape, its legacy and compatibility with newer standards ensure that it continues to have a significant role in connecting legacy devices. Whether for professional audio applications or specific storage needs, FireWire 800 remains a valuable tool in the world of older technology.