Whats special 'bout the mbox USB cable ?

[PacMan]

I have an mbox, that I sometimes move between 2 computers.

I remember reading, that it's recommended that one only use the USB cable that came with the mbox. The funny looking one, with some sort of hump at one end.

It's a bit of a hassle for me to constantly get in back of my desktop machine, so I ask why ?

What makes the mbox usb cable special ?

Is there a legitimate reason for not using any other cable ?

Ive used the mbox with normal cables a few times, and havent noticed any problems.

I'm just wondering, if I'm asking for trouble, or is the statement that one only use the supplied cable with the mbox bogus ?

[img]images/icons/rolleyes.gif[/img]

[clorox]

The funny lump is an RF filter. It blocks out radio frequencies (cordless phones, Airport, radios, etc.) from getting into your signal chain.

I think. [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

[PacMan]

I guess that makes sense.

So the digi usb cable is sort of a balanced USB cable, i guess one could say.

I suppose i will go through the hassle of using that same cable on both my machines.

[img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img]

[Dale-c]

Ok, I had noticed that too, but I have used several different cabels with mine without trouble. That does make sense though. I wonder if you can get a longer Cabel like that? I like to use my 12' Belkin cable that I use with my printer.

[WorldOfWiz]

my scanner has the same bump usb cable. too bad the Mbox didn't firewired.

Wiz

[Muzza]

the 'bump' is (most likely) a cylinder of ferrite which reduces RF interference.
If you buy a high quality USB cable, some belikins are high quality, with extra shielding, I think you get pretty much the same effect. the main thing would be to have some sort of shielding on the power so you dont get noises leaking into your audio.
'USB2' cables probably are better than this and if they have a wire braid, even better.
In all, you don't HAVE to use one cable exclusively, but you get what you pay for.

[Percustard]

Given that you have to disconnect the usb cable everytime you start your mac so that you can use the PT software with the Mbox I suspect cable damage and usb port damage will result. Just a matter of time I guess.

I have been getting 6009 errors and cannot figure out what the problem is even after all the software and firmware and updates.

I will try another cable tonight.

I gather from what has been written above that any USB cable (for testing purposes) will do (as long as you know that it works).

And as a double check maybe I should try the Mbox usb on my other USB gear.

I will try this and let you know.

Seeya

Mark

[Percustard]

I tried a new cable last night.

I used the cable on my zip drive.

Seems to power up the Mbox Ok. And the cable worked on the zip drive.

But still I get the 6009 error.

Any ideas appreciated.

Seeay

Mark

[Percustard]

It was hardware.

Sound Devices in Sydney (the retailer from whom I bought the mbox) had the same trouble and sent the box off the be fixed.

It now works fine.

Thanks to all.

Thanks to Sound Devices.

[tha k man]

The ferrites are indeed put on cables ( and devices ) to reduce Radio Frequency Interferance. The main reason that they are put on , is that electrical devices are required by law to undergo RFI tests, so that they comply with a standard ( CTEC). Without passing under this threshold, the sale of those items is illegal, and distributors can be fined ( large amounts), and products removed from general sale. One main point of this all???? To ensure the electrical devices do not interfere with broadcast frequencies.

So - why is my television so fuzzy???