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The Uni-N IC includes an IEEE 1394 FireWire controller that implements the FireWire link layer. The controller supports a maximum data rate of 400 Mbits (50 MBytes) per second.
A physical layer (PHY) IC connected to the Uni-N IC implements the electrical signaling protocol of the FireWire interface. The PHY supports two FireWire ports by way of the external connectors on the rear panel.
The PHY is powered as long as the computer is connected to AC power. While the PHY is operating, it acts as a repeater from one port to another so that the FireWire bus remains connected. For more information, see FireWire Ports.