IEEE 1394 is the technical name for a data transmission standard that is more commonly known as FireWire, which is the trademarked name of the product. Developed by Apple, FireWire can transfer data at rates of between 400 and 800 megabits per second. FireWire, and other brand names of the IEEE 1394 standard, connect computers and devices and allow them to transfer large amounts of data in real time. Basically, FireWire is the cable that you can use to connect your computer to another computer, or to external devices. Some other companies also manufacture branded versions of IEEE 1394, such as Sony, which makes iLink and Texas Instruments, which makes Lynx.
Essentially, IEEE 1394 is a method of data transfer between different digital devices. A single FireWire connection is capable of connecting up to 63 devices, through a standard similar to USB. USB – or Universal Serial Bus – is a host hub of electrical connection that manages the transfer of multiple devices at the same time. Another amazing feature of FireWire is that you can plug one device into your computer, and your computer will recognize and communicate with it, and then you can remove it and connect another, all without rebooting your system. The hot-swapping capability of FireWire makes it endlessly convenient and radically efficient.
Apple has designed some amazing functions for its computers using FireWire. If you get a new Mac, and you want to transfer data from your old Mac, you can connect them with FireWire and perform a complete Mac-to-Mac migration. The process won’t just transfer your files and folders, but will actually transfer your computer set-up, your preferences, settings and data all onto your new system. The latest in FireWire development is the FireWire 800, which is integrated into the MacBook Pro and the Mac Pro and offers high-speed device connection on the go.
FireWire is the foundation for future developments of high-speed, multiple stream bandwidth opportunities. FireWire technology is in developmental competition with the speed and connectivity offered through USB connections.
