Ham Radio Forum

Is it possible to extend a standard webcam from 6 feet? Would there be to much signal loss over say a 50 ft USB cable if such a cable could be had? How do you get "wide outdoor shots" without putting your PC on the picnic table? Is my webcam just to cheap?

John,

The maximum USB cable length specification is 5 meters (16.4 feet). However, the actual maximum distance a USB cable will work depends on a variety of things, including the electrical characteristics of the cable used and the electrical characteristics of the particular USB interfaces used on both ends.

However, active USB cable extenders that extend the maximum cable length to 100 feet or more can be purchased. Active extenders amplify and reform the data pulses to overcome signal deterioration over long cables. Search Google for

They are also named "USB Repeaters" or "USB Relays"...I have one for a USB WiFi antenna on the deck that i use to play games with the neighbour....

They are out there...this one is for 50ft...but not cheap

thanks

THANKS! Looks like Im off to the "cable store".Its tuff at 45; trying to drag yourself into the 20th century.Thanks again for the replies.

Just a thought,

I suggest to check if you can use bluetooth, if your system is enabled. I have read that logitech has a webcam device capable of that , maybe there are others model around.Possiby a DIY solution too.

That way you can go not only more far distance but without having any cabling issue.