The IEEE 1394 interface is a serial bus interface standard for high-speed communications and real-time data transfer. The interface also is known as Firewire by Apple, and i.LINK by Sony. IEEE 1394 has replaced parallel SCSI in many applications due to lower implementation costs and a simplified, more adaptable cabling system. Many modern digital camcorders and computers have included this connection for home or professional audio/video uses. IEEE 1394 makes full use of all SCSI capabilities and has high sustained data transfer rates, a feature especially important for audio and video editors. IEEE 1394b (bilingual), also known as FireWire 800, was designed for the next generation of high-performance storage devices and multimedia applications because it offers connectivity speeds of up to 800 Mbps; twice the speed of earlier Firewire products. It features a 9-pin connector design and simultaneous connection of up to 60+ devices, real-time digital audio and video transfer, peer-to-peer device connections, plug-and-play installation, and hot-swap capability. It is backward-compatible with existing technology, ideal for current products as well as for newer IEEE1394b devices. IEEE 1394b cables are perfect for connecting your new devices to legacy 1394a ports Featuring a nine-pin connector design, the new FireWire IEEE 1394b ports will continue to support all the advantages that have made FireWire a predominant high-speed interface-including simultaneous connection of up to 63 devices, real-time digital audio and video transfer, peer-to-peer device connections, Plug-and-Play device installation, and hot swap capability. The new FireWire IEEE 1394b specification is backward-compatible with existing FireWire technology, which makes it an ideal solution for those using current FireWire products as well as for those using devices designed according to the new IEEE 1394b specification.