Interface Types and Cable Lengths
By: POSGuys Support - 1/4/2016

## **Printer Cable Lengths** ##

Here at POSGuys we receive a lot of questions about how long a cable can be to attach a printer to a computer.  The answer depends on the type of connection or ***interface*** of the printer.

Let's start by looking at the most common interfaces.

----------
## USB ##

By far the most common interface for most devices in our lives, USB is the instantly recognizable connection type.  Receipt printers, however, typically use the ***USB Type B*** port, which has a more squarish shape.

The maximum length of USB, no matter the interface type, is only **16 feet**.  This is because the signal will degrade over a longer length and cannot be guaranteed to function.  The ease of connection and setup of USB makes it convenient, but the printer will need to be relatively close to the computer.

## Serial RS232 ##

An older data transmission standard, **RS232** has its roots in the modems connections from the beginning of connected computing.  Even though it is an old standard, it is widely used due to the reliability and flexibility of connections.  It has a few different cable types, but the most common is shown below.  ***Note This is NOT a VGA cable.  Those have 15 pins!***

The maximum length of RS232 cables is **50 feet**.  This gives the printer a decent reach away from the computer, but the different types of connectors and sometimes the installation of printer drivers can make this connection type a little daunting for new users.  Also, most modern computers from a standard retailer (Dell, Lenovo, etc) will not have an RS232 serial port.

## Ethernet ##

Again, this is an older standard, but one with a familiar face.  This is commonly referred to as a network printer.  Typically, this will be a printer connected to the local network, which will allow it to be physically located anywhere there is a local network connection.  The cable is the familiar ***RJ45*** or **Ethernet** type.  The connector looks like a "*wide telephone jack*"

The maximum length of this cable is **100 meters**!  This length is not only very long, but it is what we refer to as the "last leg".  That means the final cable length from the wall port or router can be almost 300 feet long.  The downsides to this connection type is only that it needs to be networked and the printer has to be installed on the computer using network installers.

----------
We sell many different printers with many different connection types, and each one has benefits and quirks.  If you're looking at printers for your business and want to read up before you call, take a look at our buying guide

[POSGuys Printer Buying Guide][1]

Buy cables for your printer online at POSGuys.com http://posguys.com/supplies_38/.

***Still feeling confused or have questions?  We can help!  We support what we sell!***

**POSGuys Technical Support**
1-800-903-6571 Ext. 302 
Support@posguys.com

[1]: https://posguys.com/buyersguide/Buyers_Guide_Receipt_Printers.asp

Share this post:

Interface Types and Cable Lengths By: POSGuys Support - 1/4/2016

Recent Posts By POSGuys Support

Interface Types and Cable Lengths
By: POSGuys Support - 1/4/2016