Serial ATA is a storage interface specification for the
next-generation computing platform. This interface connects
all ATA and ATAPI storage devices, including CDs, DVDs,
tape devices, high capacity removable devices, zip drives,
and CD-RW’s to the motherboard or daughterboard and
is the replacement for today's Parallel ATA physical storage
interface.
Serial ATA technology will allow for platform cost reductions
and performance improvements such as hot-plugability while
supporting a seamless transition from Parallel ATA technology.
Serial ATA will supply storage interface headroom for many
generations to come, beginning with 1.5 Gbps, and scalable
to 2x, 4x and beyond. At the same time, Serial ATA is a
drop-in solution that is compatible with existing ATA software
drivers and will run on standard operating systems without
modification. It will provide for systems that are easier
to design, with narrower cables that are simple to route
and install, smaller cable connectors, improved silicon
design, and lower voltages, which alleviate current design
constraints in Parallel ATA. Configuration of Serial ATA
devices will be much simpler, with many of today's requirements
for jumpers and settings no longer needed.
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