What is the longest USB lead that you can use without effecting quality?

Dominic

 

depends upon the USB standard and if the extension is powered.. are we talking USB 1 , 1.1 , 2 ? and is the extension powered or not ?

 

now you got me, all I know is i'm using a sony viao laptop connecting to an NTL USB modem, I have but i'm not using a belkin USB hub

Dominic

 

Generally, without any repeaters/boosters/etc, 5m for shielded cable and 3m for unshielded...

 

better dig out some cat 5 then.

 

If the router is in a different room and you don't want wires trailing.. why don't you try a powerline ethernet adapter (homeplug).
It basically turns your electricity lines in to a switch.

There are loads of places to get them from... but here's one for example

 

I remember reading about that type of thing years ago ,electricity supply companies contemplating creating networks to rival phone and cable companies. That will be the solution I am after, many thanks.