Icron 01-00824 3204C Point Extender
System User Guide

Thank you for purchasing the Raven 3204C. Please read this user guide thoroughly.
This document applies to the following part numbers:

FCC Radio Frequency Interference Statement Warning
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CE Statement
We, Icron, an Analog Devices brand, declare under our sole responsibility that the USB 3-2-1 Raven 3204C, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity with European Standards EN 55032, EN 55035, EN 61000, EN 62368-1 and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU + 2015/863/EU.

Industry Canada Statement
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. CAN ICES-3 (B) / NMB-3 (B)

WEEE Statement
The European Union has established regulations for the collection and recycling of all waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Implementation of WEEE regulations may vary slightly by individual EU member states. Please check with your local and state government guidelines for safe disposal and recycling or contact your national WEEE recycling agency for more information.

Product Operation and Storage
Please read and follow all instructions provided with this product and operate for intended use only. Do not attempt to open the product casing as this may cause damage and will void the warranty. Use only the power supply provided with this product. When not in use, this product should be stored in a dry location between -20°C and 70°C.

Introduction

This guide provides product information for the USB 3-2-1 Raven 3204C, installation instructions and troubleshooting guidelines. The instructions in this guide assume a general knowledge of computer installation procedures, familiarity with cabling requirements and some understanding of USB devices.
NOTE: Notes provide additional useful information.
CAUTION: Cautions provide important information about an operational requirement.

Product Contents

Your Raven 3204C extender system contains:

• USB 3-2-1 Raven 3204C Local Extender
• USB 3-2-1 Raven 3204C Remote Extender
• USB-C Cable
• 24V 1A AC Power Adapter
• 24V 2.71A AC Adapter
• 2x Country Specific Power Cords
• Quick Start Guide

Features

The Raven 3204C incorporates ExtremeUSB-CTM technology, enabling users to extend USB 3.1 beyond the standard 3m cable limit for USB 3.1 peripheral devices. This extender system is composed of two individual units: the Local and Remote Extenders and has the following key features.

• Up to 100m of extension when directly connected over CAT 6a/7 cable
• Support for new USB 3.1 Gen 1/2 host controllers and devices (up to 5Gbps)
• Supports all Control, Interrupt, and Bulk devices (not recommended for Isochronous devices)
• Backwards compatible to USB 2.0 devices
  The Raven 3204C includes the ExtremeUSB-CTM suite of features:
• Transparent USB extension for USB 3, 2 and 1
• True plug and play; no software drivers required
• Works with all major operating systems; Windows®, macOSTM, Linux® and ChromeOSTM

NOTE: For best performance install the Raven 3204C using Shielded or Foiled CAT 6a/7 cable.

The Local Extender Unit

The Local Extender unit connects to the computer using a standard USB-C cable (included). If the host supplies 15W, it can power the Local Extender. Alternately, power for this unit can be provided by the included 24V 1A adapter.

The Remote Extender Unit

The Remote Extender unit provides four USB 3 (5Gbps) ports: 2 Type-C and 2 Type-A ports for standard USB devices. Up to 30 devices may be connected by attaching USB hubs to the Remote Extender. Powered by an external AC 24V 2.71A adapter, the Remote Extender supplies 3A per USB-C port and 1.2A per USB-A port.

Installation Guide

Raven Series Category Cabling Guidelines

The Raven Series requires a minimum grade of Category 6a cabling to be used in order to reach 100m (330 ft) of extension distance.
NOTE: The total distance of 100m also includes the length of the patch cable should one be required. Up to 10m of patch cable can be used, although the remaining 90m distance must consist of solid core premise cabling.
Furthermore, depending upon specific application requirements, it is recommended that installers keep in mind how they intend to pull/route the link cable and whether to use Shielded or Foiled cable where appropriate.
When installing this product, it is appropriate to use Unshielded (UTP) cabling if the cable run installation meets the following requirements:

• The cable is not bundled with other cables
• The cable is run loosely with other Category cables
• The cable is not placed close to sources of interference such as power lines and radios
• The cable is not looped or coiled

When installing this product, Foiled (FTP) or Shielded (STP) cabling must be used if the cable run installation requires the following cable run installation:

• The cable is bundled with other cables
• The cable is run tight against other Category cables
• The cable is placed near sources of interference like power lines and radios
• The cable is looped or coiled

NOTE: For best performance install Raven 3204C using Shielded or Foiled CAT 6a/7 cable.

Requirements for Installing Raven 3204C System

To complete the installation, you will also require the following items that are not included with this system:

• USB compatible computer (host computer) with a USB compliant operating system
• USB compatible device(s)
• CAT 6a/7 cabling with two information outlets and two CAT 6a/7 patch cords with RJ45 connectors (if using premise cabling), ensuring the total cable length does not exceed 100m.

Preparing Your Site

Optional Network Connections

Before installing this system, you will need to prepare your site:

1. Place your computer where desired and set it up.
2. Ensure to locate your USB device(s) within the 100m range of your CAT 6a/7 cable. If not adjust the location of your device(s) and/or computer accordingly.

NOTE: If you are using surface cabling, the Raven 3204C supports a maximum distance of 100m. Install the CAT 6a/7 cabling as desired and terminate it with the appropriate RJ45 ends. If using premise cabling, (in-building network infrastructure), ensure your cabling is installed between the two locations and does not exceed 100m and that it meets CAT 6a/7 specification.

CAUTION: Cable installation is important, particularly if high throughput applications are used. When installing, ensure the cable is installed away from, or isolated from potential sources of interference such as electrical wiring, fluorescent lighting, etc.

NOTE: When terminating cables, ensure the matching RJ45 connector is used for the cable type. For example, if CAT 6a cable is used, then CAT 6a compatible RJ45 connectors must be used. Otherwise, the benefits of using higher grade cabling may not be realized.

Installing the Local Extender Unit

1. Place the Local Extender unit near the computer.
2. Assemble the 24V 1A power adapter and country specific power cord together and connect them into a suitable AC outlet.
3. Connect the supplied USB-C cable between the Local Extender host port and to a USB 3 port on your host computer.

Connecting the Local to the Remote Extender

With Surface Cabling:

1. Plug one end of the CAT 6a/7 cable (not included) into the Link port (outermost RJ45 connector) on the Local Extender.
2. Plug the other end of the CAT 6a/7 cable into the Link port (outermost RJ45 connector) on the Remote Extender.

With Premise Cabling:

1. Plug one end of a CAT 6a/7 patch cord (not included) into the Link port (outermost RJ45 connector) on the Local Extender.
2. Plug the other end of the patch cord into the CAT 6a/7 information outlet near the host computer.
3. Plug one end of the second CAT 6a/7 patch cord (not included) into the Link port (outermost RJ45 connector) on the Remote Extender.
4. Plug the other end of the patch cord into the CAT 6a/7 information outlet near the USB device.

NOTE: Do not exceed more than 10m total of patch cable when using premise cabling.

Installing the Remote Extender Unit

1. Place the Remote Extender near the USB device(s).
2. Assemble the 24V 2.71A power adapter and country specific power cord together and connect them into a suitable AC outlet.
3. Connect the power adapter to the Remote Extender.

Checking the Installation

1. On the Local and Remote Extender units, check that the Power, Status, Link, USB 2 and USB 3 LEDs are on. If the Link LEDs are permanently off, then the cabling between the Local and Remote units may not be installed properly or is defective.
2. For Windows users (10 or 11), open Device Manager to confirm that the Raven 3204C system has been installed correctly. Expand the entry for Universal Serial Bus controllers by clicking the “+” sign. If installed correctly, you should find two separate instances of “Generic USB Hub” listed. To open Device Manager in Windows: Right click the Start Menu and then select: Device Manager.
3. For macOS users, open the System Profiler to confirm that the Raven 3204C system has installed correctly. In the left-hand column under Hardware, select “USB” and inspect the right-hand panel. If installed correctly, you should find it listed as a single instance of “Hub” under the USB SuperSpeed Bus. To open System Profiler in macOSTM: Open the Finder, select Applications, then open the Utilities folder and double click on the System Profiler icon.
4. If the Raven 3204C is not detected correctly or fails to detect, please consult the Troubleshooting section in this guide.

Connecting a USB Device

1. Install any software required to operate your USB device(s). Refer to the documentation for the USB device(s), as required.
2. Connect the USB device to the device port on the Remote Extender.
3. Check that the device is detected and installed properly in the operating system.

Compatibility

The USB 3-2-1 Raven 3204C complies with USB 2.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 1×1 specifications governing the design of USB devices. However, there is no guarantee that all USB devices or hosts will be compatible as there are a number of different characteristics that may impact the operation of USB devices over extended distances.
NOTE: Raven 3204C Series does not support DP-ALT mode for USB-C. USB Type-C Data is supported up to 5Gbps.

Optional 1Gb Ethernet Pass-Through Connection

The Raven 3204C offers a 100/1000Mbps Ethernet pass through connection that can be used for a variety of purposes including:

• Connecting network devices
• Providing remote network access to the same location as the Remote Extender unit
• Leveraging existing cabling to provide USB 3-2-1 connectivity without losing network connectivity

USB Extender Mounting Options

The bottom of the Raven 3204C enclosures features four convenient pre-drilled holes for optional mounting. Based on your requirements, choose from two available mounting options:

1. USB Extender Mounting Kit (Purchased separately) Order Part #10-00621 Raven Black Mounting Kit
2. USB Extender Direct Surface Mounting (Use your own hardware and follow instructions listed on the next page)

Option 1: USB Extender Mounting Kit

Each kit includes:

1.  2 mounting brackets
2. 4 (M3 x 10mm) Philips screws with split lock washers
3. Mounting bracket installation guide (pictured below)

NOTE: 1 kit required to mount per Local Extender or Remote Extender unit
Use a Phillips screwdriver to fasten and secure the mounting bracket into place using the provided screws as illustrated below.

Once both mounting brackets are secured onto the extender, it is ready for mounting onto a surface.
NOTE: You will need to provide your own screws to secure the extender onto the desired surface using the available slots on each bracket.

Option 2: USB Extender Direct Surface Mounting

The bottom of the Raven enclosure features four pre-drilled holes for optional surface mounting.
Distance between the enclosure mounting holes: On the Local Extender: 42.0mm x 130.5mm On the Remote Extender: 42.0mm x 163.0mm

mounting hole

1. Mark the center point of each of the four holes on your mounting surface either by directly measuring or printing the templates: 3204C Series Local stencil | 3204C Series Remote stencil.
2. Hardware recommendation: M3 locking washers and M3 screws (4 of each per extender) noting screw length will depend upon thickness of mounting surface.
3. Drill through each of the four-hole markings on the mounting surface using a 3.97mm (5/32″) drill bit.
4. Align the bottom enclosure holes to the newly drilled out holes on the mounting surface.
5. Place a locking washer on each of the four screws and using a screwdriver, fasten the extender into place.
   NOTE: Do not exceed a screw depth of 10mm (0.4″) into the unit or damage may occur.

Direct Surface Mounting Measurement Stencils

The stencil illustrations pictured below are only 50% of the original size. Access each stencil file (to scale) by clicking the illustration or link.

https://www.icron.com/pdf/3204c-series-lex-stencil.pdf
https://www.icron.com/pdf/3204c-series-rex-stencil.pdf

Troubleshooting

The following table provides troubleshooting tips. The topics are arranged in the order in which they should be executed in most situations. If you are unable to resolve the problems after following these instructions, please contact Technical Support by visiting icron.com/support to create an online Support Ticket for further assistance.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Limited Hardware Warranty
Icron, an Analog Devices brand, warrants that any hardware products accompanying this documentation shall be free from significant defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of purchase. Icron’s hardware warranty extends to Licensee, its customers and end users. The Warranty does not include repair of failures caused by misuse, neglect, accident, modification, operation outside a normal operating environment, failure caused by service of the device by non-authorized servicers or a product for which Icron is not responsible. Opening the enclosures will void warranty.

Hardware Remedies
Icron’s entire liability and the Licensee’s exclusive remedy for any breach of warranty shall be, at Icron’s option, either (a) return of the price paid, or (b) repair or replacement of hardware, which will be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period or 30 days, whichever is longer. These remedies are void if failure of the hardware has resulted from accident, abuse, or misapplication.

Limitation of Liability
The hardware warranty set forth in this agreement replaces all other warranties. Icron expressly disclaims all other merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose and noninfringement of third-party rights with respect to the hardware.

Icron dealer, agent, or employee is not authorized to make any modification extension or addition to this warranty. Under no circumstances will Icron, its suppliers or licensors be liable for any costs of procurement or substitute products or services, lost profits, loss of information or data, or any other special, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages arising in any way out of the sale of, use of, or inability to use Icron product or service, even if Icron, its suppliers or licensors have been advised of the possibility of such damages. In no case shall Icron, its suppliers and licensors’ liability exceed the actual money paid for the products at issue.

Since some jurisdictions do not allow the limitation of implied warranties of liability for incidental, consequential, special or indirect damages, the above limitation may not always apply. The above limitations will not apply in case of personal injury where and to the extent that applicable law requires such liability.

Obtaining Warranty Service

To obtain warranty service, contact the Icron technical support team within the warranty period to obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number as returns cannot be accepted without one. Prior to contacting Icron, be sure you have recorded the serial number. To begin the warranty process, record your product serial number and fill out the short online form located at icron.com/support. To complete the return process, please follow the instructions listed on the next page.

Contacting Technical Support

For technical support, visit icron.com/support.
Please include the following information when reaching out for technical support:

• Description of the problem
• Part number and serial numbers for both Local Extender and Remote Extender units
• Host computer(s) make and model
• Type of Operating System installed (e.g. Windows 10, macOS 11.1, etc.)
• Make and model of any USB device(s) attached to this extension system
• Description of the installation such as host computer model, transmission media used and information about the USB device(s)

Product Return Shipping Instructions:
Package your product appropriately for safe shipment and mark the RMA number on the outside of the package. The package must be sent prepaid to Icron to the address listed below. We recommend that you insure your shipment or ensure your shipping method provides package tracking. The repaired or replaced item will be shipped to you, at Icron’s expense, not later than thirty days after Icron receives the defective product.

Address to Return Product:
RMA Coordinator
Icron Technologies Corporation
4664 Lougheed Highway, Suite 221
Burnaby, BC Canada
V5C 5T5
For general inquiries or sales, visit icron.com/contact

Icron | An Analog Devices Brand
4664 Lougheed Hwy., Suite 221
Burnaby, BC V5C 5T5
Canada

Technical Glossary

Category 6a/7 (CAT 6a/7) Network Cabling
Category 6a/7 cable is commonly also referred to as CAT 6a or CAT 7. This cabling is available in either solid or stranded twisted pair copper wire variants and as UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) or STP (Shielded Twisted Pair). UTP cables are not surrounded by any shielding making them more susceptible to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). STP cables include shielding the copper wires and provides better protection against EMI.

USB 3, USB 2.0 and USB-C Cables
USB cables have two distinct full-sized connectors. The Type A connector is used to connect the cable from a USB device to the Type A port on a computer or hub. The Type B connector is used to attach the USB cable to a USB device. The Type-C connector is used to connect to both USB hosts and devices.

RJ45
The Registered Jack (RJ) physical interface is what connects the network cabling (CAT 5e/6/7) to the Local and Remote Extenders. You may use either the T568A scheme (Table 1) or the T568B scheme (Table 2) for cable termination as this extender system requires all four pairs of the cable. RJ45 connectors are sometimes also referred to as 8P8C connectors. Note that any given cable must be terminated using the same T568 scheme on both ends to operate correctly.

RJ45 Pin Positioning

Documents / Resources

Icron 01-00824 3204C Point Extender System [pdf] User Guide 01-00824 3204C Point Extender System, 01-00824, 3204C, Point Extender System, Extender System, System

References

• User Manual