subject: Making Usb Cables Go Further With Extensions [print this page] USB cables are the most common connection option for most home electronics. USB ports are found on everything from computers and laptops to printers and games consoles, with handheld gadgets such as digital cameras, camcorders and smartphones often featuring the smaller versions of the technology - mini or micro USB ports.
Most people will already be familiar with USB cables, as they have been the standard for connecting devices for many years. They are quick and easy to use and allow for simple transfer of files and data in just a few seconds.
USB cable lengths
USB cables are found in lengths up to 16 feet. These are ideal for many home uses, such as transferring pictures or video from a camera to a computer or hooking up a laptop to a printer. Beyond this length however, a standard cable will not be able to transmit the signal effectively and quality loss will be seen as well as slower transfer speeds. This limits the use of normal USB cables to devices in the same room.
The cheapest and easiest way to extend the distance between which devices can be connected with a USB lead is with a USB Active Extension Cable. These leads have built-in USB repeaters to boost the USB signal, allowing the length to be extended beyond 16 feet without loss of signal or quality. By using the repeaters, four USB cables can be attached together, connecting devices up to 64 feet apart. This is great for devices that stay in different rooms and are not portable, meaning families with one printer but several computers can all be connected without hassle.
If a longer distance is required, Super USB Extenders can be used to connect gadgets up to 150 feet apart with no data loss. These feature a higher category of lead in the middle, known as a networking cable, and come in a variety of lengths, so a custom USB cable can be created without excess wires creating a mess.
There are even Super USB Extenders available at up to 330 feet, opening up a whole world of possibilities when it comes to USB connections.
Super USB Extenders are suitable for more hi-tech applications, such as home security cameras or theatre set-ups.
