Using Epson projector remotes as wireless presenters

[dgsmith]

When staff have asked about controlling their presentations, we typically suggest they find themselves a wireless presenter remote, however a few picked up on the fact that the Epson remotes have the same page up/down buttons amongst a few others so naturally queried why they couldn't use their projector remotes to achieve this.

 

I guess this would involve hooking up a suitable sized USB cable from the projector in to the computer. Has anyone tried doing this, or indeed actually have this type of arrangement in place? I am thinking if we can get hold of some cheap longish (7-10m) USB cables, then we could in theory provide each room with the ability for wireless presentation (for those that look after their remotes!)

 

We just need to find somewhere to buy these length USB cables too at a reasonable price if that's the case.. not silly money like £15+!

[fiza]

You need a usb active repeater cable like this.

 

7dayshop USB 2.0 10M (32.8ft) Active Repeater Extension Cable - Black - 7DAYSHOP.COM

[dgsmith]

So I got a 5m cable and in one room *just* about reaches (and functions), however some rooms will require closer to 7m.

 

When looking at USB cable length limitations, it does seem to be that unusual behaviour only really affects USB devices that require constant connectivity (such as mice, printers and external storage). In the instance of what I am trying to do, it is simply when the teacher presses a button on a remote.. without wanting to spend and buy if it's going to be an issue, i'd have thought the USB length limitations in what I am trying to achieve wouldn't really become apparent with just a metre or two over?

[Zourous]

In the past I've brought a pair of usb to Ethernet adapters (about £7 from amazon) they can go up to 30m in length. They are for usb v1.1 but may not matter in this case. If you got a reel of Ethernet hanging around it might be worth a punt?