Extron officially launched the USB Extender xi Series, which extends and switches USB signals from peripheral devices to a host computer up to 1,980 feet through a Gigabit Ethernet network or up to 330 feet point-to-point over one CATx cable.

The solution supports High-Speed (USB 2) and earlier devices. It can be powered by the host computer or included power supply and provides USB peripheral emulation in an effort to enable trouble-free booting of a host computer that is not connected to a keyboard or mouse. The receiver features a built-in, active four‑port hub with up to 500 mA of power per port. The matrix controller serves to allow easy setup and control for a distributed USB matrix switching system over an Ethernet network.

The company said the extender series includes support for a wide array of USB peripherals, including interactive whiteboards, keyboards, mice, mass storage devices, webcams, headsets and speakers. USB Extender xi HID models work to help secure installations by restricting connectivity to authorized device types.

Extron said the series can be combined with the USB Matrix Controller xi to create scalable distributed USB switching systems with up to 64 transmitters and receivers while offering centralized management and control.

“As organizations 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,” said Casey Hall, chief marketing officer for Extron. “With long-distance USB transport, centralized control, and support for distributed USB matrix switching, the USB Extender xi Series simplifies USB connectivity for demanding Pro AV applications.”