Hi.
Since my DVD recorder has gone to the menders and I have seen the benefits of using TS files directly from the 9200 I have a question about active USB extensions.

I am thinking of using the Son_T mod or something similar. I have an IDE to USB converter but now need to find a long USB cable. I will need a couple of active extension leads to bridge the gap from the Humax to my PC and wondered if anyone has some recommendations as to which have been found to work best.

I have decided to fit a switch to change the 12V & 5V supply to the hard disk from the Humax power supply to an external unit (as in http://www.hummy.org.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=2009) to avoid any glitches that could occur if the box comes out of standby. It seems easiest as I'll have to go downstairs to connect the USB cable and I can switch off the Humax fully at the rear, flick the switch and hook up the external supply.

So that external unit will supply the power and I'm guessing that I will only need to use normal (unpowered) USB extension cables as there won't be any risk of exceeding the USB maximum current. I've found some cables on eBay for about £5 each but am wondering if anyone has come across any problems with different cables?

Thanks for any input.
Stu.

I've no experience with USB "booster" cables (active extensions).
I can say, that the Humax own USB connection is very fussy, and more prone to problems with longer USB leads, passive extensions, and network/USB adapters.

The latter provides a possible alternative though, as it ought to work "better" with a USB/IDE device than with the Humax USB. I have all the bits, to connect as follows:

PC via LAN cable to router;
router via LAN cable to Homeplug AV - 200Mbps through mains cable;
Homeplug AV via LAN cable to USB server, a device which connects 4 USB slave devices to the network, for use by networked PCs;
USB server via USB to USB/IDE adapter;
USB/IDE adapter connected to Humax HDD.

When I've time I intend to try this - and report any success.

All the USB / networking components were from a small computer store dealing in used parts and totalled £32 although new they'd probably total nearer £200.

Yep I know how fussy the 9200's own USB port is! I've given up on that one. Your solution would be a nice one though it didn't cross my mind as I know how pricey the Homeplugs can be.
Could you send me the details of which shop you found please? Always handy to have more choices. Thanks.

Depending on distance between PVR and router, it might be possible to use just a LAN cable. QD have had both 5m (16.5') and 10m (33') LAN cables relatively cheaply (the same 5m cable is in the 99p store!).

I'll check the computer store next time I'm near. They are in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire.