Extron has begun shipping the USB Extender xi Series, which extends and switches USB signals from peripheral devices to a host computer over distances of up to 600m through a Gigabit Ethernet network, or up to 100m point-to-point over a single CATx cable. The series supports High-Speed (USB 2) and earlier devices, with the transmitter powered either by the host computer or an included power supply, and provides USB peripheral emulation to allow a host computer without a connected keyboard or mouse to boot without issue.
The receiver includes a built-in, active four-port hub with up to 500mA of power per port, while a matrix controller allows setup and control of a distributed USB matrix switching system over an Ethernet network. The series supports a wide range of USB peripherals, including interactive whiteboards, keyboards, mice, mass storage devices, webcams, headsets and speakers, while USB Extender xi HID models are intended to help secure installations by restricting connectivity to authorised device types.
Available in multiple form factors, the series can be combined with the USB Matrix Controller xi to create distributed USB switching systems with up to 64 transmitters and receivers under centralised management.
Casey Hall, chief marketing officer at Extron, said: “As organisations seek more flexible ways to deploy USB devices in courtrooms, conference and meeting spaces, classrooms, and lecture halls, the USB Extender xi Series delivers streamlined USB extension and switching capabilities. With long-distance USB transport, centralised control, and support for distributed USB matrix switching, the USB Extender xi Series simplifies USB connectivity for demanding pro AV applications.”
