Discover reliable ways to connect IEEE 1394 (Firewire) devices to USB-enabled computers. This guide highlights practical adapters that enable viewing and data transfer when direct connections aren’t available. Each option emphasizes compatibility, ease of use, and whether file transfer is supported. Use the buying guide to compare features like plug-and-play support, data transfer speeds, and device compatibility across cameras, printers, scanners, and hard drives.
| Product | Brand | Connector Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herfair Firewire to USB Adapter Cable 6 Pin Male to USB 2.0 Male | Herfair | 6-pin Firewire to USB A | View-only for some devices |
| Herfair Firewire to USB Adapter Cable 6 Pin Female to USB 2.0 Male | Herfair | 6-pin Firewire Female to USB A | Plug-and-play; 480 Mbps transfer speed |
| CERRXIAN Firewire 6 Pin Female to USB Male Adapter | CERRXIAN | 6-pin Firewire Female to USB A | Does not support CD-ROM or sound cards |
| ANRANK AF201394AK USB 2.0 Type A Male to Firewire 6 Pin Female | ANRANK | Firewire Female to USB A | Wide compatibility with 1394 devices |
| 20cm Firewire to USB Adapter Cable 6 Pin Female to USB 2.0 A Male | Unknown | 6-pin Firewire Female to USB A | View-only; compatibility note included |
Herfair Firewire To USB Adapter Cable 6-Pin 1394a to USB A Converter
This cable connects a 1394 Firewire 6-pin device to a USB-enabled computer. It supports view-only access for camera media and files. The design features one end Firewire 6-pin male and the other USB male, enabling plug-and-play setup for compatible devices such as printers and scanners with 1394 ports.
Herfair Firewire To USB Adapter Cable 6 Pin Female to USB A
This adapter converts a 6-pin IEEE 1394 port to USB 2.0, enabling connection of devices like camcorders or digital cameras to a computer. It supports Plug-and-Play and is designed for view-and-transfer scenarios, though some devices may require drivers for full functionality. It lists broad compatibility with several 1394 devices and USB hosts.
CERRXIAN Firewire 6 Pin Female To USB Male Adapter
The CERRXIAN adapter adds a Firewire IEEE 1394 6-pin female port to a USB port. It’s intended for devices like printers, digital cameras, and scanners. The product notes warn that it does not support CD-ROM drives or sound cards, and drivers may be needed if the computer does not respond.
ANRANK USB to Firewire 6 Pin Female Adapter
This adapter set converts a Firewire 6-pin device to a USB A port on the computer. It targets devices such as video cameras, printers, and scanners. It is designed for plug-and-play use, with a focus on expanding USB access to legacy Firewire peripherals.
20cm Firewire To USB Adapter Cable 6 Pin Female To USB A
Designed for 6-pin Firewire devices, this cable pairs a 6-pin female Firewire connector with a USB A male. It emphasizes wide compatibility for DV camcorders and digital cameras, while noting that it does not support data capture or sound card connections in many scenarios.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Firewire To USB Adapters
- Device compatibility: Check whether your Firewire device (camcorder, camera, printer, scanner) is listed as compatible. Some adapters are designed primarily for viewing or file transfer only, not capture.
- Connector orientation: Firewire 6-pin can be male or female. USB side is typically Type-A. Ensure the adapter matches both your device port and computer USB port.
- Data transfer capability: Many adapters advertise up to 480 Mbps or similar speeds. Real-world speeds depend on device, USB version, and drivers. Some products are “view-only” and do not support transfer.
- Plug-and-play vs. drivers: Some adapters require drivers for full functionality; others are plug-and-play. If you’re using an older computer or OS, drivers may be necessary.
- Power considerations: Firewire devices may require more power; some adapters rely on bus power from USB. Verify whether a powered hub or external power is needed for your setup.
- Compatibility caveats: Some adapters note incompatibility with CD-ROM drives or external sound cards. Review the product notes to avoid conflicts with other peripherals.
- Cable length and build: Longer cables can introduce signal degradation in some Firewire-to-USB configurations. Shorter cables are typically more reliable for stable connections.
- Use case clarity: Distinguish between viewing (read-only) and transferring data. If you need to move video or photos to your computer, select an adapter that explicitly supports transfer.
- Port availability: If your computer has limited USB ports, consider hub options. Verify that the hub supports the required USB standard (2.0 or higher) to maintain speed expectations.
- Reliability and reviews: Look for adapters with documented success across multiple devices and operating systems. User feedback can reveal driver stability and compatibility.