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 | Firewire - Overview
Firewire is a standard method of transferring digital information between equipment.
So you have firewire ports (connectors), firewire cables etc
Its very similar to USB, but because it was faster than the USB version of the day, it has become a bit of a standard for digital video.
The logo is shown left.
You may also see 'DV' next to firewire connectors (this stands for digital video)
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| Firewire is also known as Firewire is also known as IEEE1394, 1394 or iLink
IEEE is the Institute of electronic and electrical engineers; A body which sets industry standards
iLink is Sony's name for Firewire |
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 | Firewire - Cables and Connectors
There are two main types of connectors
- 6 pin (larger of the two shown)
- 4 pin
The 6 pin connector carries power lines so that one equipment can power another
There is also a 9 pin connection for firewire version 1394b (see 'Firewire - Versions' below)
It seems to be rare.
We've never been asked for it, or even seen one !
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| Firewire - Versions The original version (1394a) transfers data at 400Mbps
1394b (born 2002 ?) transfers at 800Mbps
( Mbps stands for million bits per second )
1394b equipment should work happily with 1394a equipment |
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| Where Firewire is found Firewire connections are commonly found on DVD players, DVD recorders, camcorders.
Usually under a flap and marked 'DV'. |
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| Firewire - Hot-pluggable and Plug and Play Hot-pluggable means you can plug and unplug any Firewire connector at any time without damaging the equipment at either end. (disclaimer: please do consult your manuals !)
Plug and Play means that when you connect equipment to your computer, both parties introduce themselves, and do their best to set themselves up
Eg
Computer: "Hello, who are you ?"
Equipment: "Hello, I'm a Sony E100 camcorder"
Computer: "Do I need any drivers to work you"
Equipment: "Yes, sony_e100ggh.dll"
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