The 1394 OHCI Compliant Host Controller driver from Microsoft enables Windows to communicate with compatible IEEE 1394, also known as FireWire, controller hardware. It supports the connection between your PC and FireWire peripherals such as digital camcorders, external storage drives, and audio interfaces. For Windows 10, 8.1, 7, Vista, or XP, choose a driver that matches your operating system and controller hardware.

Key Features

• FireWire controller support: Provides the Windows driver interface for compatible Open Host Controller Interface (OHCI) IEEE 1394 controllers.
• Peripheral communication: Allows supported FireWire devices to exchange data with the computer through the controller.
• Windows integration: Works with Device Manager so you can check controller status, review driver details, and troubleshoot connection problems.
• Support for FireWire workflows: Enables the controller connection used for tasks such as transferring video from compatible camcorders or accessing FireWire storage. Some peripherals also require their own drivers or software.

How to Install

1. Confirm your Windows version and hardware. Open Device Manager and look under “IEEE 1394 Bus host controllers” for the 1394 OHCI Compliant Host Controller. Check whether your Windows installation is 32-bit or 64-bit before selecting a download.

1. Choose a compatible driver source. Microsoft FireWire controller drivers are included with many Windows versions, so check the installed driver or Windows Update first. If downloading a separate package, verify that it supports your Windows release and controller.

1. Prepare the driver files. Extract the download if it is compressed, or follow the package’s setup instructions if an installer is provided. Stop any active FireWire transfers before updating the controller.

1. Update through Device Manager if needed. Right-click the controller and select the driver update option. Choose to browse your computer for driver software, point Windows to the extracted folder, and follow the prompts. Option names vary between Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8.1, and 10.

1. Restart and test the connection. Restart if prompted, reconnect your FireWire device, and confirm that the controller has no warning symbol in Device Manager. If the peripheral still does not work, check its cable, power supply, and any required device-specific software.

Use a legacy 1394 driver only when your hardware manufacturer recommends it for your Windows version; it is not a universal upgrade.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Driver install fails (Code 10/28/52): Windows usually includes the Microsoft 1394 OHCI driver (`1394ohci.sys`), so a separate package may conflict. In Device Manager, right-click the controller → Update driver → Browse → Let me pick → select 1394 OHCI Compliant Host Controller, or install the motherboard/laptop vendor’s signed FireWire driver.
• Device not detected: Confirm the 1394 controller is enabled in BIOS/UEFI, reseat PCI/PCIe cards, try another FireWire cable/port, and run Scan for hardware changes. Check hidden devices in Device Manager if it previously worked.
• Version conflicts after updates: Uninstall third-party 1394 drivers and delete their driver package, reboot, and let Windows reinstall the inbox Microsoft driver. If a recent update broke it, use Roll Back Driver or System Restore.