The term SATA generally refers to the types of cables and connections that follow this standard.
Serial ATA replacesParallel ATAas the IDE standard of choice for connecting storage devices inside of a computer.
PATA is sometimes just called IDE.
Lifewire / Hilary Allison
To hot-swap means that the devices can be replaced without turning off the entire system.
With PATA devices, you have to shut off the computer beforereplacing the hard drive.
While SATA drives support hot-swapping, the machine using it must as well, like theoperating system.
SATA and PATA Cable.RELPER and StarTech / Amazon
SATA cables themselves are much smaller than the fat PATA ribbon cables.
The thinner design also results in better airflow inside thecomputer case.
Like you read above, SATA transfer speeds are much higher than PATA.
Monoprice SATA Cable.Monoprice / Amazon
Some Windows operating systems don’t support SATA devices, like Windows 95 and 98.
However, since those versions of Windows are so outdated, it shouldn’t be a concern these days.
More About SATA Cables & Connectors
SATA cables are long, 7-pin cables.
CableCreation Molex to SATA Adapter.CableCreation / Amazon
Both ends are flat and thin, with one often made at a 90-degree angle for better cable management.
This is called external SATA, oreSATA.
eSATA drives are hot-swappable in the same way as internal SATA drives.
Most computers don’t come pre-installed with an eSATA connection on the back of the case.
However, you’re able to buy the bracket yourself pretty cheaply.
StarTech’s1 Port SATA to eSATA Slot Plate Bracket, for example, is around $10.
Those cable adapters are pretty inexpensive, likethis one from Micro SATA Cables.
