Club3D launches expensive and passive 30-ft USB4 cable with limitations

Club3D has launched two new USB-C accessories. For users who need to cover particularly long distances, the company has introduced the CAC-2509 cable. According to Club3D, it can transfer data over more than 30 feet while remaining a passive cable. However, the cable is expensive. Club3D does not mention a price in its press release, but initial retailers are already listing it for over $100.

The cable is also not suitable for every use case. Despite being a USB4 cable, it supports only 20 Gbps, according to the manufacturer. Power delivery is limited to 100W. That rating should not actually exist, as the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) specifies either 60W or 240W. Cable requirements under the standard are based on current ratings relative to voltage rather than fixed wattage figures.

Accordingly, the CAC-2509 is not certified. It should be noted, however, that cable certifications are uncommon. A USB-IF-accredited laboratory needs between 75 and 100 cables for its test series. For inexpensive cables, there is little reason not to pursue certification because the cost of the samples is negligible. The situation is likely different for the CAC-2509. In any case, its 100W rating would prevent it from passing certification.

The USB standard does not specify fixed cable lengths, instead relying on recommendations. A well-designed cable can therefore exceed those recommendations, while certification ensures that it meets the performance requirements of the specification.

Adapter for two cables

Club3D has also introduced the CAC-2507, an adapter that connects two USB-C cables. This can be used to create a longer cable when necessary. However, doing so clearly violates the specification. Club3D recommends using high-quality cables, such as its own 4-ft CAC-1570. That recommendation strongly suggests that problems may occur.

It is unlikely that two CAC-2509 cables could be connected this way to create a 60-ft link. Still, it would be interesting to see whether even USB 2.0 speeds remain possible.

We suspect that cable extensions will require some luck. In our experience, particularly long USB-C cables are not always reliable. We use one such cable for gaming accessories, and it does not work consistently. The adapter doesn't have an official MSRP just yet.