Buyer's Guide: Best Firewire Cables
What are Firewire Cables?
Firewire cables, also known as IEEE 1394 cables, are a type of cable used to connect devices such as computers, cameras, and audio/visual equipment. They are known for their high-speed data transfer capabilities, making them an ideal choice for transferring large amounts of data quickly.
Why Choose Firewire Cables?
Firewire cables offer a number of benefits over other types of cables, such as USB or HDMI. For one, they are capable of transferring data at much higher speeds, making them a great choice for transferring large amounts of data quickly. Additionally, Firewire cables are able to provide power to connected devices, which can be useful for devices that do not have their own power source.
How to Choose the Right Firewire Cable
When choosing a Firewire cable, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, consider the length of the cable. Firewire cables are available in a range of lengths, from short cables for connecting two devices that are close together, to longer cables for connecting devices that are further apart. Choose a cable that is the right length for your needs.
Next, consider the type of connector. Firewire cables are available with different types of connectors, such as 6-pin, 4-pin, and 9-pin connectors. The type of connector you need will depend on the devices you are connecting. Make sure to choose a cable with the right type of connector for your devices.
Finally, consider the speed of the cable. Firewire cables are available in different speed ratings, such as 400 Mbps and 800 Mbps. Choose a cable with a speed rating that is appropriate for your needs.
In Conclusion
Firewire cables are a great choice for transferring large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. When choosing a Firewire cable, consider the length, connector type, and speed rating to ensure that you get the right cable for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a FireWire cable used for?
FireWire, also known as IEEE 1394, is primarily used to connect peripherals to a computer. It is commonly used for devices like external hard drives and digital camcorders that require high transfer rates, reaching up to 800 Mbps.
2. Why isn't FireWire used anymore?
FireWire's usage decreased as USB became more powerful. While FireWire initially offered faster speeds than USB, the latest USB4 standard now supports 40 gigabits per second, leaving FireWire unable to keep up.
3. Are there different types of FireWire cables?
Yes, there are two types of FireWire connectors: 6-pin and 4-pin. The 6-pin connector, commonly found on computers, provides two pairs of signal wires and one pair of power wires for external equipment.
4. What is the difference between FireWire 400 and 800 cable?
The main difference between FireWire 400 and FireWire 800 is the speed. FireWire 800 effectively doubles the bandwidth of the original FireWire 400 interface.
5. Can I connect FireWire to USB C?
To connect a FireWire device to a Mac with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports, you would need two adapters and a special FireWire cable: Apple's Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 adapter, Apple's Thunderbolt 2 to FireWire 800 adapter, and a FireWire cable with an 800 port on one end and a 400 port on the other.
6. What is the disadvantage of FireWire?
One disadvantage of FireWire is that the cables can be more expensive compared to other options. Additionally, FireWire is not as widely supported as USB, and compatibility with certain devices can be limited.
7. What are the three types of FireWire connectors?
FireWire cables are available with 4-, 6-, and 9-pin connectors. The specific pin arrangement depends on the FireWire standard or cable application. 4-pin connectors are commonly used with consumer electronics like camcorders and personal computers.
8. Are FireWire 400 and 800 compatible?
FireWire 800 devices can still operate via the original FireWire 400 port, thanks to backward compatibility. However, a specific adapter cable is required to connect a FireWire 800 device to a FireWire 400 port. There are two types of FireWire 400 ports: 6-pin and 4-pin.
9. How do I know if my FireWire is 400 or 800?
FireWire 400 has a flatter connector with one rounded side, while FireWire 800 has a wider, more USB-like connector. The names accurately represent the cable's speed: 400 Mbps for FireWire 400 and 800 Mbps for FireWire 800.
Editor's Notes
During our firewire cable research, we found 24 firewire cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,081 customer reviews through our big data system to write the firewire cables list. We found that most customers choose firewire cables with an average price of $8.91.
The firewire cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of firewire cables, including Cable Builders, MICRO CONNECTORS, Tripp Lite, GINTOOYUN, PASOW. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 6,421 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.