Now you can hook up USB-connected devices and not worry about them being attached to a host computer or in close proximity. Cables To Go has introduced its patent-pending USB SuperBooster Wall Plate that allows a USB signal to run over standard Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6 patch cords and function to a computer up to 150 feet away.

The SuperBooster is a plug-and-play device that contains a transmitter unit with USB Type B female input and RJ45 female output connectors and a receiver unit with RJ45 female input and USB Type A female output connectors. A single-gang Decora-compatible wall plate houses both units, and the pair is connected via standard patch cords (not included), the company says.

The user can choose pre-terminated network cables or pull un-terminated cable and use the tool-less IDC RJ45 connectors included with the SuperBooster—no external power source is necessary, as the computer’s USB port powers it up, the company adds.

The device is compliant with USB specification 1.1, compatible with any computer that supports USB, and fits standard J-boxes. It also helps present a clean look by eliminating unisghtly cables that are often used as USB extenders.

MSRP is $129. Go to www.cablestogo.com for more details.

Arlen Schweiger
Managing editor of Electronic House, EH Publishing

Arlen contributes product news items to electronichouse.com along with his role on the print publication. Got a tip? Send it along!

Arlen Schweiger can be reached at aschweiger@ehpub.com