USB extension cables are often mistaken to cause latency to any connected device. But in fact, they do not cause any significant latency. Technically, longer extension cables can cause latency, but it is negligible.
Even though latency is not a common effect, long USB extension cables have been observed to affect some other performance parameters. Let’s look at them in detail.
Does a USB Extension Cable Add Latency?
A USB extension cable can only add a small amount of latency. According to experts, the latency caused by extension cables is as small as 1/1000 of the device or computer’s latency. The amount is so negligible that the user does not recognize any difference.
If USB extension cables have to cause latency, they must be at least several miles long. Even the other accessories of computers can cause more latency than USB cables. It is visible that even a mouse click is reflected on the screen after a mild amount of latency. USB extension cables do not cause any such amount of latency.
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If a device exhibits significant latency while using a USB extension cable, it will likely be because of some error with the device only.
The voltage can drop a little while using a USB extension cable. This voltage drop can affect other parameters of the device’s performance. But it does not cause latency.
Why Does a Long USB Cable Exhibit A Drop in Voltage?
A long USB cable exhibits a drop in voltage because it is only meant to be used for short distances. USB cables are designed primarily for the following tasks.
- Transmit data
- Charge small devices
Both of these tasks are supposed to be carried out within a relatively more minor area. USB cables are not supposed to be used to transmit power or data to longer distances. So, when the cables are extended and used to send long distances, they might not be able to carry the signals very long.
This is why a small power drop happens while using long USB cables. This power drop does not cause latency but can affect the device’s performance.
There are ways to resolve the power drop in long USB extension cables. The best way is to use a premium-quality USB cable. High-quality USB cables have a thicker core part that increases the efficiency of the cable. This core enables the USB cable to transmit power or signals to a relatively longer distance.
How Long Can A USB Cable to Not Affect A Device’s Performance?
USB cables up to 20 feet cannot affect a device’s performance. A USB cable that has a length between ten and twenty feet is considered the ideal one for transmitting power or signals.
Long USB cables that are nearly 100 feet or more exhibit a significant power drop. Such long USB cables can affect the performance of the device, too.
In 100 feet or more long USB cables, there can be a tendency for the signals to appear a bit late at the target device. Although it is not very noticeable in other devices, professional gaming computers can identify the difference.
Gaming computers are expected to have a quick response time. So, whenever a minor latency happens, the user can identify it. It is the same with long USB cables. As mentioned, extremely long USB cables cause a slight latency in devices. But this latency is barely noticeable, except when using a high-end gaming computer.
Using high-quality connectors at the ends of the USB cable can reduce the latency effects of long USB cables.
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Does a USB Extension Cable Affect Device Performance?
A USB extension cable can affect device performance in multiple aspects. Indeed, a USB extension cable does not cause significant latency in devices. Chances are high for them to affect other aspects of the device’s performance.
Let’s look into some of the parameters of a device’s performance and check whether the length of a USB cable affects it.
- Voltage
- Gaming Performance
- Sound Quality
Voltage
As mentioned, long USB cables can cause a drop in the output voltage. When a user plugs a USB cable into an extension, it immediately changes the voltage. Shorter USB cables always allow more current to flow through them.
If you use the USB cable to power another device, it is advisable not to use an extension cable. Powering requires a strong flow of current through the cables, and it is only possible when the cables are shorter.
Shorter USB cables also contain minimal resistance. This low resistance is also helpful in improving the current flow through the cables. The drop in the output voltage is visible precisely in USB cables that are longer than thirty feet.
Gaming Performance
Long USB cables can somewhat affect a device’s gaming performance. Very long USB cables essentially slow down the signal transfer through them. This causes the signals to reach the target device a bit slow.
Even though the slow-down is relatively minor, it can affect the gaming experience. Gaming needs a high response time; thus, even a little change can disrupt gaming.
It is advisable not always to use an extension cable to a USB cable unless necessary.
Sound Quality
People often criticize longer USB extension cables for lack of sound quality. But the fact is that the length of the USB cable has no relation to the quality of the device’s sound. The only reasons that can cause a drop in the sound quality are:
- Cheap-quality cables
- Interference from other nearby devices
- Lack of shielding for the cables
- High distance between the computer and the speaker
Do USB extension cables slow charging?
USB extension cables can potentially slow down charging, though the extent of the impact depends on various factors:
- Cable Quality and Length: The longer the cable, the greater the resistance, which can lead to slower charging. High-quality cables with better conductivity and shielding can minimize this effect.
- Cable Gauge: Thicker wires (lower AWG number) in the cable can carry more current and reduce resistance, thus reducing the potential for slower charging.
- Power Source and Device Compatibility: The charger’s power output and the device’s charging specifications also play a significant role. If the power source can deliver more power than the cable’s resistance can reduce, the impact on charging speed might be negligible.
- USB Standard: Different USB standards (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, etc.) have different power delivery capabilities. An extension cable adhering to a lower USB standard might limit the charging speed.
In summary, while USB extension cables can slow down charging, using a high-quality, appropriately gauged cable of the shortest necessary length can minimize this effect. It’s also important to consider the compatibility of the power source and the device being charged.
Final Word
USB cables are great for transmitting signals and power within a short premise. Even though extension cables are convenient, it is advisable not to use them until and unless necessary. Long USB extension cables are not a problem for regular requirements. But for highly power-consuming tasks like gaming, which needs high response time, any amount of latency is not desirable. So, for gaming devices, it is better not to use long USB extension cables to avoid any form of latency.
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