Now, you’re free to read this post from MiniTool to find more detailed information about it.

This post tells you the definition, history, advantages, and disadvantages of it.

This post is focusing on PATA.

PATA

Parallel ATA (PATA)

What Is PATA

What is PATA?

Parallel ATA (PATA) drives are one of the hard drive types.

They are also known asintegrated drive electronics(IDE) or enhanced integrated drive electronics (EIDE) drives.

It is the first hard drive connected to a computer using the PATA interface standard.

To learn more information about PATA, continue to read this post fromMiniTool.

The PATA drive was developed by Western Digital in 1986.

PATA drives can provide data transfer rates up to 133 MB/s.

In the master/slave configuration, two PATA drives can be connected with one cable.

Maybe you are interested in this post [2020 Guide] How to Choose a Motherboardfor Your PC.

The original ATA specification issued by the Standards Committee uses the name AT Attachment.

AT in IBM PC/AT is called Advanced Technology, so ATA is also called Advanced Technology Attachment.

One is referred to as machine 0 (master) and the other machine 1 (slave).

Disadvantages

One of the disadvantages of PATA cable is that it is really big.

When the cable is laid on other equipment, this will make the cable bundling and management more difficult.

Similarly, large PATA cables make it difficult to cool computer components because the airflow must bypass larger cables.

Another disadvantage of PATA cable is that it is very expensive because it costs more to manufacture one.

You may need to use older PATA devices in newer systems with only SATA cables.

You need an adapter for those conversions.

Final Words

What is PATA?

This post has gathered the PATAs definition, history as well as the advantages and disadvantages.

If you want to learn some information about PATA, you’re able to refer to this post.