Is there any throughput or signal loss, or anything like that, when using a 16ft/5m usb extension cable with a wifi adapter?
The wifi adapter is USB2.0, if that makes a difference.
Hi, the theoretical max data data rate via USB2 (480Mb/s) should well exceed that via Wifi, so from one point of view even if your achieved USB transmission speed takes a significant hit you shouldn't experience any noticeable effect.
Whilst it's unlikely you'll notice a loss in data rate, you might want to consider how you source the cable. For interest see discussion here:The USB 2.0 specification limits the length of a cable between USB 2.0 devices (full-speed or hi-speed) to 5 meters (or about 16 feet and 5 inches).
USB3 cables - some are great, some suck, why?
Although it focusses on USB3, the basic idea that performance can be limited by the cable chosen remains.
Nice. Also found this:
It's not some much loss of speed more does it come near any sort of noise which can kill speed like TV microwave
Ah. Thanks for letting me know.
If it doesn't give satisfactory performance then I suppose you'll be forced to add a repeater for the AP [possibly using a spare router].
So a USB cable is simpler.
best of luck,
Denis
Performance will probably be affected as they are not designed for using long USB extension leads.
5m is the maximum theoretical usable length of USB cables.
My USB3 WiFi adapter (up to a nominal 1200 Mb/s reputable brand) comes with a 600 mm USB3 extension cable(dock) as standard. That works fine, but extending that to 5m is taking chances it may stop working or poor performance. Quality of USB cable is important for longer lengths.
"Why would you stick a WiFi adapter on the end of a cable?"
1) To place the aerial clear of metal, in a better position for a good WiFi signal, even 600mm of cable is very useful.
2) Dodging mouse and mat etc, depending on placement of USB3 ports on a given Laptop.
Wow...
- Bought a cheap 5-meter USB extension cable
- connected the wifi adapter with it to my pc
- device connected sound, device shows up, all seems well, but can't find networks
- spend hours testing on different OSs, different drivers...
- finally try plugging it in directly... works fine...
Never buy a cheap long USB cable...
Quote
