StarTech.com PCI1394MP 4-Port FireWire PCI Card - IEEE-1394a 400 MB/s - Plug-in Card with Low Profile Bracket
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This FireWire PCI card operates at 400 MB/s data transfer rates, matching the maximum throughput of IEEE-1394a specifications. The host interface utilizes standard PCI bus architecture for broad compatibility with desktop motherboards featuring available PCI slots.
The card configuration includes three dedicated external 6-pin FireWire ports plus one shared internal port, providing flexible connectivity options for both external devices and internal FireWire components when needed.
Relevant factors for this section include Host Interface, Data Transfer Rate. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
A strong technical summary explains how the product's interfaces, hardware profile, and operating characteristics work together in real deployment. Buyers often need this context to confirm compatibility with existing devices, expected performance in daily use, and whether installation will be straightforward for IT staff or end users.
Key Product Advantages
This FireWire adapter stands out with its comprehensive feature set designed for hassle-free integration and long-term reliability in professional environments.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Complete Connectivity Solution, Simplified Installation.
Complete Connectivity Solution
Four FireWire 400 ports provide ample connectivity for multiple legacy devices simultaneously, eliminating the need for daisy-chaining or external hubs in most deployment scenarios.
- Three external 6-pin ports
- One shared internal port
- 400 MB/s throughput per port
Simplified Installation
Includes both standard and low-profile brackets to accommodate various desktop chassis configurations, ensuring proper fit in full-size towers and compact systems alike.
- Low-profile bracket included
- Standard bracket pre-installed
- Clear installation documentation
Deployment / Use Cases
This FireWire PCI card serves as an essential connectivity solution for systems that must interface with legacy FireWire equipment in professional, educational, and creative environments.
Common deployment scenarios include video production workstations connecting to digital camcorders and capture devices, audio recording setups interfacing with FireWire audio interfaces and mixers, and data archival systems accessing legacy FireWire external hard drives. The card also supports scientific and industrial applications where specialized FireWire instruments and measurement devices remain in service.
Video Production Environments
Enables direct connection of legacy digital video cameras and capture decks to modern editing workstations, maintaining workflow continuity without replacing expensive FireWire-based equipment.
Audio Recording Studios
Provides stable FireWire connectivity for professional audio interfaces, allowing musicians and producers to continue using high-quality FireWire audio gear with current computer systems.
Physical Profile
The card measures 4.80" in length, 3.10" in height, and occupies a single PCI slot with standard bracket dimensions. The lightweight design at approximately 1.90 ounces ensures minimal strain on the PCI slot while maintaining durable construction for reliable long-term operation. The included low-profile bracket allows installation in compact desktop systems where space constraints require smaller form factor components.
- Width
- 18" (457.20 mm)
- Height
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Weight
- 1.90 oz (53.86 g)
- Length
- 4.80" (121.92 mm)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate installation and operation.
Highlights
- Adds four IEEE-1394a FireWire 400 ports via PCI slot
- Supports data transfer rates up to 400 MB/s per port
- Compliant with IEEE 1394a-2000 and 1394-1995 standards
- Includes low-profile bracket for compact system installation
- Plug-and-play installation with hot-swap compatibility
- Lifetime warranty for long-term reliability assurance
- TAA compliant for government and educational procurement
- EU RoHS certified for environmental responsibility
- Platform support for both PC and Mac systems
- Manufactured in Taiwan with quality assurance
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | PCI1394MP |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 4 Port IEEE-1394 FireWire PCI Card |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | FireWire Adapter |
| Technical Information | |
| Host Interface | PCI |
| Media & Performance | |
| Data Transfer Rate | 400 MB/s |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of FireWire/i.LINK Ports | 4 |
| Number of FireWire/i.LINK 400 Ports | 4 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Height | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Width | 18" (457.20 mm) |
| Length | 4.80" (121.92 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 1.90 oz (53.86 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 1 x PCI FireWire Card 1 x Low Profile Bracket 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Platform Supported | PC,Mac |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | Lifetime |
User Manual
FAQ
What types of devices can I connect to this FireWire PCI card?
This card supports any IEEE-1394a compatible device, including digital camcorders, external hard drives, audio interfaces, scanners, and legacy storage systems. The four 6-pin FireWire 400 ports provide connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously, making it suitable for video editing workstations, audio production setups, and data transfer applications where FireWire peripherals remain essential.
Is this FireWire card compatible with both Windows and macOS systems?
Yes, the StarTech.com PCI1394MP supports both PC and Mac platforms. The card utilizes standard FireWire drivers that are typically included with modern operating systems, though specific driver installation may be required for certain configurations. Platform compatibility extends to Windows versions that support PCI architecture and macOS versions that maintain FireWire driver support.
What is the difference between the external and internal FireWire ports on this card?
The card features three dedicated external 6-pin FireWire ports on the rear bracket for connecting standard FireWire peripherals. Additionally, it includes one shared internal port that can be used with internal FireWire devices or adapted for additional external connectivity through appropriate cabling. This configuration provides flexibility for various installation scenarios while maintaining the primary focus on external device connectivity.
Does this FireWire card support hot-swapping of connected devices?
Yes, the PCI1394MP supports hot-swap functionality, allowing you to connect and disconnect FireWire devices without powering down the computer system. This feature is particularly valuable in professional environments where multiple devices need to be swapped during workflows, such as video production where different cameras or storage devices may be connected at various stages of the editing process.
What installation brackets are included with this FireWire PCI card?
The package includes both a standard full-height bracket pre-installed on the card and an additional low-profile bracket for compact desktop systems. The low-profile bracket enables installation in smaller form factor cases where space constraints require reduced-height components, while the standard bracket accommodates traditional desktop tower configurations. Clear installation instructions guide proper bracket selection and mounting.
What environmental certifications does this FireWire adapter carry?
This product is EU RoHS certified, complying with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive. It also meets REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive) requirements. These certifications demonstrate environmental responsibility in manufacturing and disposal, making the card suitable for organizations with green procurement policies or regulatory compliance needs.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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