IDE -> PATA and SATA

Definition:
SATA: Serial Advanced Technology Attachment
PATA: Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment
IDE: Integrade Device Atachment

The term Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) refers not just to the connector and interface definition, but also to the fact that the drive controller is integrated into the drive, as opposed to a separate controller on or connected to the motherboard

Working difference :
SATA : Fast data transfer (150MB/sec, 1.5, 3 and 6 GB/sec )
PATA : LOW rate data transfer (16, 33, 66, 100 and 133MB/sec )


Visual difference:
SATA: 7 pin connector
PATA: 40 pin connector

Cable difference:
SATA: Long,flexible,multicolor, narrow width having 7 wires,no connector in between cable
PATA: Small,less flexible,grey or white,more width,having 40 wire cable,have connector in betbeen cable

SATA: New SATA mother boards have one connector for PATA cable as provision to connect old hard disk or CD/DVD-ROM

PATA: PATA mother board not have any connector for new SATA cable as PATA is old
technology