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How Do I Choose the Best USB Transceiver?

Jeremy Laukkonen
Jeremy Laukkonen

In order to choose the best universal serial bus (USB) transceiver, you need to consider the type of device you will use it with. Many transceivers are specifically designed for use with one particular device, so it is important to find a compatible unit. Other universal USB transceivers are designed to add wireless functionality to devices with a certain type of physical connection. In addition to compatibility, other USB transceiver characteristics you may want to pay attention to will include power output, operating range, and the version of USB that the device uses. Later versions of USB can offer higher transfer speeds, though you will need to verify compatibility with your computer hardware.

Transceivers are devices that are capable of both receiving and transmitting signals. These devices typically combine the receiver and transmitter circuitry into one common structure that often shares components. Any wireless technology can be employed by the receiver and transmitter, including radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR), and any type of data or information can be conveyed. A USB transceiver is a device that can be plugged into a computer with a universal serial bus connection, and used to transmit and receive date. Other transceivers are commonly used in communications technology, such as two-way radios.

A variety of USB cables, which can be used with a USB transceiver.
A variety of USB cables, which can be used with a USB transceiver.

The first step in choosing a USB transceiver is to identify the specific device you plan to use it with. If you have a wireless webcam, or other similar device, you will need a USB transceiver that is specifically designed for that product. Some of these devices use proprietary data transfer mechanisms, which will prevent you from buying a generic transceiver. That may reduce your options, but you can still pay attention to factors such as power output and operating range. You will want to select a transceiver that is capable of broadcasting far enough to reach your remote equipment.

Ports for the Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) cable are still found on many personal computers.
Ports for the Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) cable are still found on many personal computers.

You may also be interested in a universal USB transceiver if you want to be able to use your devices remotely. These transceivers are designed to allow wired devices to operate wirelessly. If you have a USB mouse or keyboard, you can look for a wireless USB extender. These devices have remote transceiver stations that include one or more USB jacks for you to plug your equipment into.

Devices that use other connections, such as recommended standard (RS) 232 serial ports, can also be used with certain USB transceivers. In order to accomplish this, you will want to look for a product that includes a remote transceiver station with the appropriate connection type. Since USB transceivers typically allow bi-directional communication, it is possible to use them with a wide range of devices.

Another type of USB transceiver can be used to connect a computer to a wireless network. These transceivers send and receive information packets that allow communication with the local area network (LAN) or the Internet. To choose the best type of USB transceiver for networking, you will need to make sure it is compatible with your wireless router and provides sufficient range.

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    • A variety of USB cables, which can be used with a USB transceiver.
      A variety of USB cables, which can be used with a USB transceiver.
    • Ports for the Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) cable are still found on many personal computers.
      By: intararit
      Ports for the Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) cable are still found on many personal computers.