StarTech.com
StarTech USB3AAEXT5M USB 3.0 Active Male to Female Extension Cable - 16.4'
Best active extension for placing peripherals further from your computer.
Extend your USB 3.2 Gen 1 connections reliably with this 5-meter active extension cable. It overcomes standard distance limitations using built-in active circuitry, ensuring fast data rates up to 5Gbps are maintained. For maximum reach, you can daisy-chain up to four units for a total extension of 20 meters. It also includes an AC power adapter for optional external power, guaranteeing stable performance for demanding peripherals. This cable offers a robust and flexible way to place your USB devices exactly where you need them.
$91.49
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
284
/ 2682
#284 in Storage & Data Transfer Cables
Price vs Category Average
+67%
Above average
Length
5196.9
/ meters ( inches)
Who it's for
- Remote workers needing long-distance peripheral connectivity
- IT professionals requiring dependable, enterprise-grade hardware
- Users wanting a clean, clutter-free desk setup
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking basic, low-cost cable solutions
- Users connecting power-hungry devices like external hard drives
- People managing cables in tight, restricted workspaces
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Active circuitry effectively eliminates data loss over long-distance cable runs.
Data Throughput
Maintains consistent 5Gbps speeds for demanding high-bandwidth peripheral devices.
Scalability
Daisy-chain capability offers impressive reach for complex workstation setups.
Power Reliability
Included AC adapter ensures stable power for high-draw external hardware.
Build Robustness
Durable construction withstands the rigors of professional office environments.
Installation Versatility
Flexible design allows for easy cable management in tight spaces.
Key Specs
Length
5 meters (196.9 inches)
Data Standard
USB 3.2 Gen 1
Max Data Rate
5 Gbps
Connectors
USB A (Male) to USB A (Female)
Daisy Chainable
Yes, up to 4 units (20m total)
Power
Can be externally powered via included AC adapter
Warranty
2 years
Active Cable
Yes
Know before you buy
Yes, this cable works with most USB 3.2 Gen 1 devices, such as hard drives, printers, and webcams. Because it is an active cable, it is specifically designed to maintain signal integrity over long distances where standard passive cables would fail.
The AC adapter is optional but recommended if you are connecting power-hungry peripherals like external hard drives or high-definition cameras. If your device draws minimal power, the cable can often operate using only the power supplied by the host computer's USB port.
Yes, you can daisy-chain up to four of these cables together to achieve a total length of 20 meters. This allows for significant flexibility when placing equipment in larger rooms or office setups.
Yes, the cable is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 devices. However, keep in mind that your data transfer speeds will be limited to the maximum speed supported by the older USB standard rather than the 5Gbps provided by USB 3.2 Gen 1.
While it can provide power to connected devices, it is primarily designed for data transfer and peripheral connectivity. It may charge devices at a slower rate than a dedicated wall charger, especially when daisy-chained.
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