What is Firewire commonly used for?

Firewire, also known as IEEE 1394, is primarily recognized for its high-speed data transfer capabilities and is specifically geared towards connecting digital devices. It is commonly used to connect drives, including external hard drives, as well as CD and DVD burners. This technology allows for faster data transfer rates compared to other interfaces, making it particularly valuable for tasks that require moving large amounts of data quickly, such as video editing or backing up substantial files.

The other choices do not accurately represent the primary use of Firewire. While Firewire can indeed connect various devices, its association with audio interfaces and other peripherals is more of a secondary application. It is not typically used for connecting standard input devices like keyboards and mice, nor is it designed for charging mobile devices, which is a function generally handled by USB connections. Thus, the focus on drives and optical media illustrates Firewire's strength in handling high-bandwidth data in devices that rely on fast information transfer.