IEEE finalizes FireWire 3200, USB 3.0 will be faster
The IEEE recently approved IEEE 1394-2008, a faster version of FireWire used for connecting PCs with digital video devices or external hard drives. The new classification will help increase the speed of FireWire from its current maximum of 800Mbit per second (with FireWire 800) to up to 3.2Gbit per second. Along with the S3200 that offers 3.2 Gbps transfer rates, the IEEE also approved S1600, which will offer 1.6 Gbit/sec. IEEE 1394 will eventually be scaled up to 6.4Gbit/sec, the organization indicated.
Both interfaces can be used with existing FireWire 800 cables, easing the migration for users of the current standard.
The IEEE expects FireWire 3200 to roll out in October. Products with the new standard will not go on sale immediately, manufacturers will need to implement the technology into future products. Apple is largely expected to be the first company using FireWire 3200.
The October launch is absolutely crucial because the Intel-backed USB 3.0 is expected to arrive by the end of 2008, bringing with it a maximum speed of 4.8Gbps. USB 2.0 offers speeds of 480Mbit per second, which still gave manufacturers a use for FireWire 800.
Source:→ BetaNews
Yeah right — just look around the net. USB advertises its maximum speed, but you'll never really get that performance in everyday use. Firewire on the other hand delivers the speeds it promises. That's why video pros use it. FW800 is fast, and 3200 gonna kick USB to the curb