What is the maximum length of a USB cable without signal degradation in most cases?

The maximum length of a USB cable without signal degradation is indeed most commonly accepted as 5 meters for USB 2.0 and 3 meters for USB 3.0. This limit is determined by the specifications that govern USB cables and their performance. For USB 2.0, 5 meters allows for reliable data transmission while maintaining appropriate voltage levels and reducing the potential for signal loss. On the other hand, USB 3.0 devices involve higher data rates and increased signal frequencies, which necessitate a shorter cable length to avoid degradation—hence the 3-meter limit for optimal performance.

Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially when designing or troubleshooting USB-related systems. When using cables longer than these specified lengths, users could experience issues such as slower data transfer rates, inconsistent connections, or even complete loss of connectivity.