This chapter presents the PC 98 requirements and recommendations for ATA (AT Attachment), ATAPI (ATA Packet Interface) controllers and peripherals. ATA is more commonly known as IDE (Integrated Device Electronics).
The IDE interface is one of the most widely used in the PC world. Originally intended only for hard drives, IDE support is being extended to additional device types and performance features.
The use of IDE in a PC 98 system is optional. If IDE is used, however, all components must comply with the requirements defined in this chapter.