Computer Hardware Terms, Glossary and Dictionary

ATA: Advanced Technology Attachment

Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA), also known as AT attachment or AT attachment Packet Interface (ATAPI), is a standard interface for connecting storage devices such as hard disks and CD-ROM drives inside personal computers. Many terms and synonyms for ATA exist, including abbreviations such as IDE, ATAPI, and UDMA. ATA standards only allow cable lengths up to 18 inches (up to 450 mm) although cables up to 36 inches (900 mm) can be readily purchased, so the technology normally appears as an internal computer storage interface. It provides the most common and the least expensive interface for this application.

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ATA: Advanced Technology Attachment