Hi Tom,

The USB connection doesn't carry a video signal, it is strictly digital. If
you have a bad cable, you will likely get USB errors which are fairly
obvious.
If you are extending it a short distance, then quality is less of an issue.
I have had good luck with no name 6' cables.

As far as the cable splitter, most cable companies, especially those that
have internet also, require splitters with bandwidth at least up to 1000Mhz.
Ones that go higher are more likely aimed at the satellite TV market which
requires higher bandwidth. Note that with cable splitters, there is ALWAYS a
loss of signal of 3.5db per 2/1 split. This is because of the physics of
cable transmission and can't be helped. As long as you have a strong signal
going into your house, you can probably work fine with as much as 10.5 -
14db loss overall (there are likely other splitters already installed). If
you have a problem, then an inline amplifier may be needed. Try it first.

Russ Poffenberger
[log in to unmask]

-----Original Message-----
From: Personal Computer Hardware discussion List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Tom Waddell
Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 2:25 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [PCBUILD] USB extension cable & signal splitter


Looking for USB extension cable & signal splitter. Bought PC laptop camera
w/ mic to use on desktop PC with Skype. Camera only has 2 ft USB cable. Need
extension cable to reach PC under desk. Finding extension cables from $4-5
on-line to $20-30 at local stores. Know a really cheap cable will degrade
the video signal. What is needed for clear video at a reasonable price?

Same for signal splitter. Have PCTV card. Need to split signal to cable
modem & PCTV card. Found 2GHz splitter at local store for $20 and much
cheaper ones on-line. May be able to get free splitter from cable company
but thought I'd ask here first.

Thanks,

Tom

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