USB extensions

[Guest Si2504]

So i have come to the conclusion that my laptop doesn't like the cold outdoors very much, and makes life difficult when trying to run different software whilst doing an imaging session.

 

I figured i would try and run the USB cables to my desktop in the house, which would require me to use USB extensions. Has anyone had any issues using regular extensions even though the total length may go beyond the USB maximum data transfer length, or do people find that USB repeaters work ok? I've heard of people having issues with USB repeaters. Thanks

[red dwalf]

i use 5 meter usb repeater cables with no issues but i do know of people that use 20 meters that have had trouble, maybe one of them will help with the problems on the longer cables.

[stash]

I use a 25m Active Usb 2.0 cable with a powered hub at the end from an old Vista Laptop(usb 2.0) or a Tablet (win 10 plus USB3) and then a 5m cable to the device(normally 3 devices - camera,focuser etc) - I loose speed as active cables count as a hub but it drives my Canon or ZWO camera . Note not all active cables are the same quality plus it also depends on what hardware layout is used by the manuagcturer. Try another USB port as some ports are shared  on internal hub. If it isn't working on either your Desktop or Laptop that would point to the USB Cable - try a shorter cable(if you have one) on your Laptop and see if that works ok  - if it does  you have another problem. You have said what you are connecting and make sure you are using "active" USB cables like these http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TRIXES-20m-Long-Reaching-USB-Active-Repeater-Extension-Cable-USB2-0-Booster/390974965959?_trksid=p2141725.c100338.m3726&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20150313114020%26meid%3D7157a17194bc4cca811273b53f0d027b%26pid%3D100338%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D20%26sd%3D261080450176 for example. Powered hub is similar to this http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/7-Port-Hub-Charger-Hi-Speed-AC-Power-Adapter-3-0-USB-Cable-For-PC-Laptop-UK-/321937342582?hash=item4af4f60076:g:XakAAOSw7FRWXwbP but power is from a 12v to 5v DC-DC brick like this http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DC-DC-Converter-Regulator-12V-Stepdown-to-5V-3A-15W-Car-Power-Supply-Module-UK-/161818321733?hash=item25ad1fa345:g:M1UAAOSwqv9V7Wx6 

[glider]

I do what stash says, active USB cable then a powered hub at the mount end.

 

Hubs can call for up to 500mA per port so get a good 12Vdc to 5Vdc converter!

 

Mine is a 4 port hub so I think my supply is rated 5A.

 

[Guest Si2504]

Ok cheers thanks everyone