[mythtv-users] Maximum length of cables for USB<>Serial DirecTV control?

[Kevin Ross]

Scott Harris wrote:
> Howdy all,
>     I've got three DirecTV STBs, all working great either via
> the built in mini RJ-22 or the USB<>Serial connections.  They are
> all connected with fairly short cable lengths, < 2-3 feet.  I'm
> trying to un-tether the 3 STBs from the mythtv backend system,
> mainly to seperate them due to heat building.
>
> I've read the various specs for USB cable lengths, and it seem that
> going the 25-30 feet I need to go shouldn't be an issue, so long as
> I'm willing to get better grade cable or add some sort of powered
> repeater hub in the middle.
>
> Does anyone have any real world proof that this distance would work?
> Is it even feasible with the type of "USB" connections the STBs have?
> Is there possibly a better, wireless solution?  I've never been too
> keen on the wireless stuff, as it would mean some type of non direct
> wired connection, which would reduce reliability.
>
> Thanks for any help.
>
> Scott

I don't know about USB, but for serial, you can go up to about 50 feet 
with no problems.  If you need to go longer distances, you can get 
RS-232 to RS-422 adapters, which would allow for cable runs close to a 
mile (if memory serves).