PIO, or programmed input/output, is a method of transferring data from a device to another device, utilizing the computer processor and not the memory or DMA. Because PIO modes utilize the computer processor, using PIO is slower than DMA.

ATA, Bus mastering, Computer acronyms, DMA, Hard drive terms, IDE

There are no plans for a PIO Mode 5 (or anything beyond PIO Mode 4). However, some manufacturers have advertised computer or hardware with acceptance to PIO Mode 5.

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