Enable DMA Mode to Boost Data Transfer

What is DMA Mode?

Would you like to enable DMA mode computer? Keep reading to find out if its right for you. DMA is short for Direct Memory Access. DMA mode is high performance option that allows for improved data transfer.  This works by freeing the CPU from the transfer process. So the CPU will be available for other functions. Therefore you will see increased rate of transfer in hard drives, CD/DVD transfers. DMA mode can be enable through Windows operating system. However, this option is not usually found in newer PCs. 

Should you enable DMA Mode?

If you are using application that put a strain on your CPU. That would be 90% of gamers and those who multitask bawith multiple programs running. DMA mode can free up the CPU by giving you more memory to work with. 

How to enable DMA mode?

Depending on the device, you may have to enable DMA for each device. However, You can enable DMA on the primary ATA/IDE Channel. This is essentially connection between your hard disk, transfer devices and your computer motherboard. By enabling DMA mode in this way you improve all data transfer.

1. Click Start

2. Choose Control Panel

3. Click System and then load the Device Manager

4. Scroll down the list of devices until you locate IDE/ATA Controllers.

5. Click the [+] symbol to display the devices..

6. Right click one of the following options with channel. For example  Primary IDE Channel or ATA Channel 0. 

7. Choose Properties and then Advanced Settings

8. You will see Device 0 and Device 1. Change the setting to DMA mode if available for both devices. If this option is available you will see the "Ultra DMA Mode transfer rate.

The primary device is the hard drive that you use for primary operations such as your operation system and application. The other device could be a recovery drive or another device. The goal here is to improve the performance of your hard drive that is connected to your main applications

This option is not always available on all devices. You might be able to enable this option for one device but it may not be available in another device. 

For other ways to increase your hard drive performance, click here