FIREWIRE (IEEE 1394)

FireWire is associated with Apple Computer Company’s original implementation of the IEEE standard 1394. The IEEE 1394 standard references high-speed serial transmissions of up to 400Mbps (in version 1394a) and 800Mbps (in version 1394b). FireWire is plug-and-play compatible and hot swappable; it also allows up to 63 devices to be connected to one port. A plug-and-play system will use the process known as “enumeration” to assign an address and auto-detect any FireWire-connected devices.

A FireWire connector is somewhat similar in shape to a USB connector. The main difference is that a FireWire connector is larger and squarer than a typical USB connector. Figure 21.6 displays a FireWire connector.

Figure 21.6: A FireWire connector.

FireWire technology and other forms of the IEEE 1394 standard are expected to replace most serial and parallel connections in the future. For now, the IEEE 1394 standard is well suited for devices that require high speeds and large real-time throughput, such as video equipment. FireWire is much faster than USB, supporting data transfer rates of 100Mbps to 800Mbps. As a result, FireWire is also much more expensive than USB.

Note

The A+ Core exam may ask, “Which technology is faster, IEEE 1394 or USB?” Make sure that you are prepared to identify technologies by their IEEE association. You may know all there is to know about connecting devices together, but if you can’t identify technologies and standards, you will not be able to pass the Core exam.

If you wish to learn more regarding FireWire, the following HowStuffWorks, Inc., Web site offers a superb explanation of FireWire basics: http://computer.howstuffworks.com/firewire1.htm.