INOGENI U-Bridge USB 2.0 Extender User Manual

1. Product Overview

The INOGENI U-Bridge is a robust USB 2.0 extender designed to overcome the standard 5-meter cable limit for USB peripheral devices. It enables reliable USB 2.0 extension up to 100 meters (330 feet) over a single CAT 5e/6/7 cable, making it ideal for various professional applications.

This device is compatible with a wide range of USB 2.0 peripherals, including video cameras, whiteboards, microphones, audio devices, hard drives, flash drives, and keyboards. It seamlessly integrates with videoconference systems such as Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR), Zoom Rooms, CODECs, and Room PCs from leading brands like Lenovo, Poly, Crestron, Cisco, Logitech, Q-SYS, and Barco. The U-Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

Image 1.1: The INOGENI U-Bridge USB 2.0 Extender units. This image displays the two main components of the U-Bridge system, showcasing their compact design.

Key Features:

• Extends USB 2.0 signals up to 100 meters (330 feet) over a single CAT 5e/6/7 cable.
• Flexible power options: Power adapter can be connected to either the PC Host or Device unit.
• Supplies up to 1 Amp to the USB port for connected devices.
• Optimized for USB 2.0 device bulk transfers, enhancing mass storage acceleration.
• Easy installation with integrated mounting slots for cable ties.
• Broad compatibility with various operating systems and videoconferencing platforms.

2. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to properly set up your INOGENI U-Bridge USB 2.0 Extender.

2.1 Package Contents

• 1x INOGENI U-Bridge PC Host Unit
• 1x INOGENI U-Bridge Device Unit
• 1x USB 2.0 Cable
• 1x AC Power Adapter with International Power Cords

2.2 Identifying Components and Ports

The U-Bridge system consists of two identical-looking units: a PC Host unit and a Device unit. Each unit has distinct ports and LED indicators:

• PC Host Unit:
  • USB Host Port: A standard USB-B port for connecting to your computer.
  • Config Port: (Micro-USB) Used for advanced configuration, if applicable.
  • Mode Button: For specific operational modes or resets.
  • Power LED: Indicates power status.
  • Activity LED: Indicates USB data transfer.
  • Link LED: Indicates CAT cable link status.
  • Host LED: Indicates connection to the host computer.
  • Link Port: An RJ45 port for connecting the CAT 5e/6/7 cable to the Device unit.
  • Power Port: A 24V 1A DC input for the power adapter.
• Device Unit:
  • USB Device Port: A standard USB-A port for connecting your USB 2.0 peripheral.
  • Power LED: Indicates power status.
  • Activity LED: Indicates USB data transfer.
  • Link LED: Indicates CAT cable link status.
  • Host LED: Indicates connection to the host computer.
  • Power Port: A 24V 1A DC input for the power adapter.
  • Link Port: An RJ45 port for connecting the CAT 5e/6/7 cable to the PC Host unit.
  • Config Port: (Micro-USB) Used for advanced configuration, if applicable.
  • Mode Button: For specific operational modes or resets.

Image 2.1: Front and rear views of the INOGENI U-Bridge units. This image provides a visual reference for the physical appearance of the extender units, including their various connection ports.

2.3 Connection Steps

1. Connect the PC Host Unit:
   • Connect the supplied USB 2.0 cable from your computer's USB port to the USB host port on the U-Bridge PC Host unit.
   • Connect one end of a CAT 5e/6/7 cable (up to 100m / 330ft) to the Link port on the PC Host unit.
2. Connect the Device Unit:
   • Connect the other end of the CAT 5e/6/7 cable to the Link port on the U-Bridge Device unit.
   • Connect your USB 2.0 peripheral device (e.g., camera, microphone) to the USB device port on the Device unit.
3. Apply Power:
   • Connect the AC power adapter to either the Power port on the PC Host unit or the Power port on the Device unit. The U-Bridge offers flexible power, allowing you to power the system from either end.
   • Plug the AC power adapter into a wall outlet.
4. Verify Connection:
   • Observe the LED indicators on both units. The Power LED should illuminate, and the Link LED should indicate a successful connection between the two units.

2.4 Mounting

Both U-Bridge units feature two mounting slots on each side. These slots are designed for easy installation using cable ties or zap straps, allowing for secure placement in various environments.

3. Operating Instructions

Once the U-Bridge is set up, it operates automatically. No drivers are required for basic functionality.

3.1 LED Indicators

The LED indicators provide visual feedback on the status of the U-Bridge system:

• Power LED: Indicates that the unit is receiving power.
• Link LED: Illuminates when a stable CAT cable connection is established between the PC Host and Device units.
• Activity LED: Flashes to indicate data transfer activity over the USB connection.
• Host LED: (Specific to PC Host unit) Indicates connection to the host computer.

3.2 Connecting USB Peripherals

Simply connect your desired USB 2.0 peripheral to the USB device port on the Device unit. The U-Bridge will automatically detect and establish communication with the connected device. Ensure your peripheral device does not exceed the 1 Amp power supply provided by the U-Bridge USB port.

3.3 Compatibility

The U-Bridge is designed for broad compatibility with various operating systems and professional videoconferencing equipment. It supports:

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Videoconference Systems: Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR), Zoom Rooms, CODECs, or Room PCs from brands such as Lenovo, Poly, Crestron, Cisco, Logitech, Q-SYS, and Barco.
• USB 2.0 Peripherals: Cameras, whiteboards, microphones, audio devices, hard drives, flash drives, keyboards, and other standard USB 2.0 devices.

4. Maintenance

The INOGENI U-Bridge is designed for reliable, long-term operation with minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the units. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Environment: Ensure the units are operated within a clean, dry environment and away from extreme temperatures.
• Cable Integrity: Periodically check the CAT cable and USB cables for any signs of damage or wear.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your U-Bridge, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

1. No Power:
   • Ensure the AC power adapter is securely connected to both the U-Bridge unit (either PC Host or Device) and a working wall outlet.
   • Check if the Power LED on the unit is illuminated.
2. No Link (Link LED off):
   • Verify that the CAT 5e/6/7 cable is securely connected to the Link port on both the PC Host and Device units.
   • Inspect the CAT cable for any damage. Try a different, known-good CAT cable if available.
   • Ensure the cable length does not exceed 100 meters (330 feet).
3. USB Device Not Detected:
   • Confirm that the USB 2.0 cable from your computer is connected to the USB host port on the PC Host unit.
   • Ensure your USB peripheral is connected to the USB device port on the Device unit.
   • Check if the peripheral device requires external power and if it is properly powered.
   • Try connecting the USB peripheral directly to your computer to confirm it functions independently.
   • Restart your computer and reconnect the U-Bridge system.
4. Intermittent Connection/Slow Data Transfer:
   • Ensure you are using a high-quality CAT 5e, CAT 6, or CAT 7 cable.
   • Check for potential sources of electromagnetic interference near the CAT cable run.
   • Verify that the USB peripheral is a USB 2.0 device. While backward compatible, performance may vary with older USB 1.1 devices.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty Information

INOGENI provides a limited warranty for the U-Bridge USB 2.0 Extender:

• 5 Years: For products purchased by the end-user after August 1, 2024.
• 2 Years: For products purchased by the end-user before August 1, 2024.

This warranty covers parts and labor. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

8. Technical Support

The INOGENI U-Bridge is engineered and professionally supported in Canada. For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact INOGENI customer support through their official website or contact information provided with your product.