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FireWire Controller

The Uni-N IC includes an IEEE 1394 FireWire controller with a maximum data rate of 400 Mbits (50MBytes) per second. The Uni-N IC provides DMA (direct memory access) support for the FireWire interface.

The controller IC implements the FireWire link layer. A physical layer IC, called a PHY, implements the electrical signalling protocol of the FireWire interface. The PHY supports two FireWire ports by way of external connectors in the I/O bay.

IMPORTANT

The FireWire PHY on the iMac does not accept external power. As long as the computer is plugged into an active AC power outlet, the FireWire PHY is active and the FireWire bus remains connected. If AC power is interrupted, the PHY will not operate.


© 2000 Apple Computer, Inc. – (Last Updated 01 Aug 00)