This document introduces TI's FireWire® devices, which are compliant with the 1394b standard and advance home networking and high-speed data transfer. The 1394 (FireWire®) connectivity technology enables simple, low-cost, high-bandwidth real-time data connectivity between computers, peripherals, and consumer electronics. These devices are suitable for consumer electronics such as camcorders, A/V receivers, SACD and DVD-audio players, DVCRs, digital TVs, computers, and peripherals. 1394-compliant products offer consumers a quick way to transfer large amounts of data between components and create robust, high-speed connections between devices throughout the home or office. The original specification, 1394a, called for data transfer rates of 100, 200, and 400 Mbps over a distance of up to 4.5 meters.
The document provides an overview of IEEE 1394 (FireWire) technology and the newer 1394b standard, highlighting its higher data rates, longer cable distances and backward compatibility with 1394a. It explains how TI's 1394b‑compliant chip families (TSB17BA1, TSB41BA3, TSB81BA3, TSB82AA2) enable fast audio/video transfer over Cat5, optical fiber and other media.
Technical details for each chipset are given, including supported data rates, maximum cable lengths, power‑down features, supply voltages and package types. Contact information for TI technical support and regional sales offices is also included.
| TSB17BA1 data rate | 100 Mbps |
|---|---|
| TSB17BA1 supply voltage | 3.3 V (optional dual 1.8 V) |
| TSB41BA3 maximum data rate | 400 Mbps |
| TSB41BA3 maximum cable distance | 100 m (Cat5, GOF, POF) |
| TSB81BA3 data rate | 800 Mbps |
| TSB82AA2 PCI interface options | 33 MHz/64‑bit or 33 MHz/32‑bit selectable |
The TSB17BA1 supports a 100 Mbps data rate over up to 100 meters of Cat5 cable.
Yes, the TSB41BA3 provides three fully backward‑compatible 1394a‑2000 ports at 100/200/400 Mbps.
The TSB81BA3 can operate up to 100 meters with Cat5 or glass optical fiber, and up to 50 meters with plastic optical fiber.
All listed TI 1394b chipsets include power‑down features that conserve energy in battery‑powered applications.