Hey All,
I’ve noticed some discussion about USB extensions causing issues with the Shapeoko. I wanted to share my solution. I’m not sure anyone else is using something like this…so hopefully this gives you another option to get your G-code sender control to an optimum location.
In my shop, I have a large monitor attached to the wall opposite the machine. The distance is about 20 feet. I wanted to use that monitor because it’s mounted above my work bench. This way I can monitor/control the Shapeoko while working on other things. I didn’t use a USB extension. Instead I used a KVM (Keyboard/Video/Mouse) switch over ethernet. My G-code sender is a compute stick from AcePC (W5 Pro, I think). I plug that into the KVM switch transmitter, run the ethernet through the rafters in the shop, and drop it down behind my monitor to the KVM receiver. Only one end of the KVM switch needs power since it uses PoE to power the other box, you can plug power into whatever end is most convenient. Since the computer is still right next to the machine, I can use the shorter USB cable that came with my Shapeoko and still have my machine control where I’d like it. You can also plug your mouse and keyboard into the receiver. The KVM switch is available here: https://www.amazon.com/AV-Access-Extender-Adaptive-Mounting/dp/B073B84CY1/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=kvm+switch+PoE&qid=1594729084&sr=8-7 but there are other options that may work better for you.
The little AcePC compute stick is super slow for most stuff, but it’s working great as a G-code sender with Carbide Motion.