IEEE 1394

What is 1394 technology?
IEEE 1394 technology is a simple, low-cost, and high-capacity multimedia connection that allows real time data transmission for digital information in camcorders, video decks, and televisions, and between computers, printers, and other peripheral devices. It is the same technology as Apple Computer's Fire Wire and Sony's i.LINK.
By using products and systems compatible with 1394 technology, multimedia data from transmission lines and digital television, and DVD video clips can be handled without degradation. It also includes plug-and-play features that are fundamental for home electronics, for up to of 63 connections. In addition, it can handle real time data and asynchronous data simultaneously by mixing low-speed and high-speed transmissions. With this technology, the barriers between computers, peripheral devices, home electronics, and communications devices are removed, to allow the sharing of data through unrestricted links by common media and connections. As a result, non-linear digital video editing, DTP, and home multimedia features become possible for the personal user at home. 1394 technology provides low-cost, high-speed single connections, while allowing truly flexible connectivity, and is the next generation of multimedia interface.

How is it different from USB?
Considering the numbers, there is a big difference between their capacity for transmission. The minimum transmission for IEEE 1394 is 8 times the volume for USB (12Mbps), being 100Mbps. Furthermore, there are high-speed, high-volume 1394 specifications for 200Mbps, 400Mbps, 800Mbps, and 1600Mbps. These specifications were designed with consideration for future multimedia transmissions. However, the greatest difference in usage is that a computer is required for the use of USB, while the IEEE 1394 does not. For example, since a video can be printed out or images from digital camera can be displayed on a television without the use of a computer, operation becomes much simpler and enjoyable for children and the elderly. This also makes it easier to receive faxes by simply connecting your printer to a telephone line. And, with future TV-phones, it will really become possible to talk on the telephone while watching television. With these superior features of IEEE 1394, users can connect devices with the features they require to emulate other home electronics or create entirely new features.


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