The USB Extender xi Series extends and switches USB signals from peripheral devices to a host computer up to 1,980 ft (600 m) through a Gigabit Ethernet network or up to 330 ft (100 m) point-to-point over one CATx cable. It supports High-Speed (USB 2) and earlier devices. The transmitter can be powered by the host computer or included power supply and includes USB peripheral emulation 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 controller provides simple setup and control for a distributed USB matrix switching system over an Ethernet network. The USB Extender xi Series supports USB peripherals such as keyboards, mice, mass storage devices, and webcams in Pro AV environments.

The transmitter features peripheral emulation to support uninterrupted communication between the host and the USB device, ensuring USB port recognition during system boot-up, even without a connected keyboard or mouse. Port LED indicators provide visual confirmation of system activity for ease in troubleshooting. When deployed over an IP network, the transmitters support both point-to-point and one-to-many applications. The one-to-many capability enables a single transmitter to connect to up to four receivers, giving multiple USB devices at different locations throughout a room access to a single host computer or laptop. This feature can also support connecting a USB device, such as a webcam, to a computer at the front of the room from multiple locations.

The USB Extender xi Series is capable of transmitting USB signals long distances over a CATx twisted pair infrastructure. For distances up to 330 feet (100 meters), installation of the USB Extender xi enables direct connection of USB peripherals to the remote host computer without needing additional IP network drops, equipment, software, or drivers. This simplifies integration in KVM - Keyboard-Video-Mouse applications by avoiding IT-specific design criteria that may be in conflict with the need for KVM extension in professional AV installations.

For installations where longer distances are required or when pairing one transmitter to multiple receivers, the USB Extender xi Series transmitter and receiver can be connected to a Gigabit Ethernet switch located up to 330 feet (100 meters) away to extend the total distance to 660 feet (200 meters). In addition, the signal can be extended through a network of as many as five Gigabit Ethernet switches, with up to 330 feet (100 meters) between each pair of switches, for a total transmission distance of 1,980 feet (600 meters).

The extender supports USB peripherals such as interactive whiteboards, keyboards, mice, mass storage devices, webcams, headsets and speakers, along with other USB devices. For secure environments, the USB Extender xi HID model is designed to ensure that only authorized device types are recognized. It allows connection of a keyboard, mouse, smart card reader, or similar USB device, and prevents connection of unauthorized hardware, such as a storage device.

Transmitters and receivers are available in three form factors that can be mixed and matched for optimum integration flexibility. The compact, 1‑inch quarter rack width metal enclosure is designed for desktop, under desk, lectern, or rack mounting. The USB Extender xi AAP model fits into a double-space AAP - Architectural Adapter Plate opening, providing convenient and elegant architectural USB connectivity. The USB Extender Plus D is a decorator-style wallplate that fits into a single-gang wall box.

The USB xi Matrix Controller provides a simple management interface to create USB switching systems using up to 64 USB Extender xi Series transmitters and receivers. Any AV control processor can easily control USB switching using SIS commands sent via Ethernet or RS‑232. The USB xi Matrix Controller can be combined with USB Extender xi Series transmitters and receivers to create a simple distributed USB matrix switching system within a single room or spanning an entire building. The system can be configured quickly and easily using Extron's PCS - Product Configuration Software.

The USB Extender xi Series is ideal for a wide variety of environments requiring extension and switching of USB signals with data rates up to High-Speed, including courtrooms, conference and meeting spaces, classrooms, and lecture halls.