The Serial ATA is a storage-interface for connecting storage controllers (most commonly integrated into laptop computers and desktop motherboards) to mass storage devices (such as hard disk drives and optical drives).

SATA offers several compelling advantages over the older parallel ATA interface: reduced cable-bulk and cost (8 pins vs 80 pins), faster and more efficient data transfer, and the ability to remove or add devices while operating (hot swapping).

Serial ATA has distinct key advantages over its predecessor. Cables are very thin with small 7-pin connectors. They can be up to 3 feet (1 meter) in length, and are easily routed to stay out of the way allowing maximum airflow inside the case. SATA also has a far lower power requirement of just 250 mV compared to PATA’s 5-volt requirement, and with chip core voltages declining, this speaks well of SATA’s future. Serial ATA does away with Master/Slave configurations and drive jumpers.

The most obvious change with Serial ATA is the difference in drive cables. Other differences include ( ex : ATA ):

• Higher throughput
• Revised power connector
• Longer data cables
• Support for external drives (eSata)

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