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upinflames900
Jul 22, 2009, 01:12 PM
Quick question...don't know if this is the right place to post...I need to connect a printer via USB but the cord is not long enough. I am planning on buying two USB extender cables (with a male and a female end) to reach the distance. The total cord length should not exceed 18 feet, but will I loose signal at that distance with the signal having to travel through 3 different cords? Thanks in advance.



geoffreak
Jul 22, 2009, 01:16 PM
Instead, buy an Airport Express and run an Ethernet cable to it, as Ethernet can run much longer than USB without losing signal.
With that many USB connections you will have problems. Never do more than one USB extension/hub or more than 10ft of cable between your computer and the device, regardless of what any of the official specs say. Any more and you are asking for trouble.

upinflames900
Jul 22, 2009, 01:17 PM
Instead, buy an Airport Express and run an Ethernet cable to it, as Ethernet can run much longer than USB without losing signal.
With that many USB connections you will have problems. Never do more than one USB extension/hub or more than 10ft of cable between your computer and the device, regardless of what any of the official specs say. Any more and you are asking for trouble.

Unfortunately can't use ethernet because there is no slot for that.

thegoldenmackid
Jul 22, 2009, 01:19 PM
Unfortunately can't use ethernet because there is no slot for that.

Computer-Ethernet Cable-AirPort Express-USB Cable-Printer.

upinflames900
Jul 22, 2009, 01:21 PM
Computer-Ethernet Cable-AirPort Express-USB Cable-Printer.

That would cost more than the printer! It is only say 15 feet I have to go.

steviem
Jul 22, 2009, 01:24 PM
Even one extender brings the cable out of USB spec.

Give it a go by all means, but the sure fire way of it working is unfortunately bringing it within range of a single USB cable.

upinflames900
Jul 22, 2009, 01:26 PM
Even one extender brings the cable out of USB spec.

Give it a go by all means, but the sure fire way of it working is unfortunately bringing it within range of a single USB cable.

What if I buy one cord that is long enough will that cause problems?

steviem
Jul 22, 2009, 01:49 PM
One cord should be alright, 5m is about 16ft so enough for you.

geoffreak
Jul 22, 2009, 02:40 PM
Again, going over 10ft is risky in reliability. If you absolutely need to, make sure to get a thick cable that is well insulated.

thegoldenmackid
Jul 22, 2009, 02:41 PM
That would cost more than the printer! It is only say 15 feet I have to go.

I completely agree, I was just point out that it is possible.