Re: Extending USB over Cat5

["bruce33sw" <watson2@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Tim,

Just my experience - a long time ago I tried USB over CAT5 directly
before I knew anything about it, but it really didn't work over any
length over around 5m. All I did was slice a usb cable in two and
solder each end directly on to a cat5 ensuring power/gnd went down one
pair (orange) and D+,D-(?) down another (green). Maybe worth a go?
Unfortunately http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB#USB_cables
doesn't
sound too hopeful on it.

Then, years later I got a couple pairs of cheap USB<->CAT5 extenders
off ebay for around =A39 a pair from HK. The only thing I've noticed is
that they seem to be sensitive to mains on/off switching, causing
disconnects and reconnects now and again. Perhaps shielded cable would
have helped. I did have them going through 2 patch panels as well.

Obviously, I had to open them up but the chips had their labels
scrubbed off :-(.

If you don't get your parabolic tinfoil dishes sorted out, then I
could be persuaded to post the unused USB<->CAT5 pair.

Cheers, Bruce.

PS the other thing that comes to mind is splitting open the receiver
and seeing whether it can be divided in two, i.e. cat 5 between the RF
receiver and the USB part?? Might not be possible, just a thought.

--- In ukha_d@xxxxxxx, Tim Hawes <timsyahoo@...> wrote:
>
> I've got an RF keyboard (CPC p/n CS11987) that I want to use in the
> lounge with the PC upstairs in my new wiring closet. Different bits of
> documentation state ranges of 3, 4 & 5m although what I actually
get
> is closer to 1.5m :-(
> I've got enough Cat5 installed to be able to move the receiver closer
> or even down into the lounge but I'm puzzled how to extend it. There's
> a few suggestions on the web but has anyone here actually done it? I'd
> prefer a DIY solution before splashing out =A330 on pre-made adaptors.
> Any suggestions on what colour code to use and whether I should put
> the data +/- on the same cat5 pair and whether to use a single pair
> for 5V & 0V or use a pair for each?
>=20
> Total Cat5 length will be in the region of 10-12m.
>=20
> Alternatively, what options do I have for focussing the RF signal
> better? It's a 40 MHz system.
>=20
> Thanks,
>=20
> Tim.
>



------------------------------------