StarTech.com ST121UTP VGA Video Extender over CAT5 - 1 x 4 SXGA 1280 x 1024 up to 500 ft
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This video extender operates on a wired connectivity platform, utilizing two RJ-45 ports to establish a link over Cat5e cable. It accepts one VGA input signal and outputs it to four independent displays, with the system architecture allowing two displays to be connected at the transmitter (local) location and two at the receiver (remote) location.
The extender maintains signal integrity for resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 (SXGA) across its maximum operating distance of 500 feet (approximately 152 meters). This performance makes it suitable for standard-definition content, presentations, and signage applications where long cable runs are necessary.
Relevant factors for this section include Connectivity Technology, Number of Input Devices Supported, Number of Output Devices Supported, Graphics Modes. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The ST121UTP extender delivers practical value by solving common distance and distribution challenges in AV installations without requiring expensive custom cabling.
Cost-Effective Infrastructure Use
Leverages ubiquitous and affordable Category 5e network patch cables for video transmission, reducing material costs and simplifying cable management compared to dedicated long-run VGA cables.
- Uses standard Cat5e cable
- Eliminates need for bulky coaxial alternatives
- Simplifies inventory and replacement
Flexible Display Configuration
The 1x4 design provides deployment flexibility, allowing displays to be placed both near the source and at a remote location up to 500 feet away.
- 2 local + 2 remote display support
- Ideal for multi-room or hallway setups
- Consolidates control from a single source
Installation-Ready Package
Includes essential mounting brackets and rubber feet for securing the transmitter and receiver units, facilitating neat and stable placement on desks, shelves, or walls.
- Mounting bracket for receiver included
- Rubber feet for non-slip placement
- Dual power adapters for both units
Deployment / Use Cases
This extender is ideal for scenarios where a VGA video source needs to be shared with displays in different physical locations without significant signal degradation. Its use of network cable makes it particularly suitable for retrofitting existing buildings where Cat5e infrastructure may already be in place.
Common applications include digital signage networks in retail stores or corporate lobbies, classroom or training room setups where an instructor's PC feeds both a local projector and monitors in a back room, and industrial control rooms where monitoring displays are required both at the operator console and in a separate engineering office. The extended range also supports installations in large venues like warehouses, gymnasiums, or houses of worship.
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment.
Highlights
- Extends VGA video signals up to 500 feet (152 m) using Cat5e cable.
- Distributes one input to four displays: two local and two remote.
- Supports maximum resolution of 1280 x 1024 (SXGA).
- Utilizes standard, economical Category 5e twisted-pair network cable.
- Includes mounting bracket and rubber feet for secure installation.
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty for reliability assurance.
- TAA compliant for use in U.S. government contracting.
- Environmentally friendly with EU RoHS, REACH, and WEEE compliance.
- Compact transmitter and receiver units for discreet placement.
- Complete kit with dual power adapters for out-of-the-box setup.
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ST121UTP |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | VGA Video Extender over CAT5 (ST121 Series) |
| Product Type | Video Extender Transmitter/Receiver |
| Technical Information | |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Number of Input Devices Supported | 1 |
| Number of Output Devices Supported | 4 |
| Maximum Operating Distance | 500 ft (152400 mm) |
| Video | |
| Graphics Modes | SXGA |
| Maximum Video Resolution | 1280 x 1024 |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Network (RJ-45) | Yes |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 2 |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Twisted Pair Cable Standard | Category 5e |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Transmitter Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Transmitter Width | 3.30" (83.82 mm) |
| Transmitter Depth | 2.40" (60.96 mm) |
| Receiver Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Receiver Width | 3.30" (83.82 mm) |
| Receiver Depth | 2.40" (60.96 mm) |
| Transmitter Weight (Approximate) | 11.82 oz (335 g) |
| Receiver Weight (Approximate) | 11.82 oz (335 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | VGA Video Extender over CAT5 (ST121 Series) 1 x Mounting Bracket for Receiver (w/ screws) 2 x Sets Rubber Feet 2 x Power Adapter 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the maximum distance this VGA extender can transmit a signal?
The StarTech.com ST121UTP can extend a VGA video signal up to 500 feet (approximately 152 meters) when using standard Category 5e twisted-pair network cable. This extended range allows for flexible display placement in large rooms, across different floors, or between buildings where direct cable runs are impractical.
How many displays can I connect to this extender system?
This is a 1x4 video extender. It accepts one VGA input from a source device (like a computer) and can output that signal to a total of four displays. The system architecture supports connecting two displays locally at the transmitter unit and two additional displays remotely at the receiver unit.
What video resolution does this extender support?
The extender supports a maximum video resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels, which is the SXGA (Super Extended Graphics Array) standard. This resolution is suitable for many business presentations, standard-definition content, and digital signage applications, providing clear and stable image transmission over the extended Cat5e link.
What type of cable do I need to use with this extender?
The extender is designed to work with standard, straight-through (not crossover) Category 5e twisted-pair network patch cables. Using quality Cat5e cable ensures reliable data transmission up to the rated 500-foot distance. This allows you to leverage existing network cabling infrastructure or use readily available and affordable bulk cable for new installations.
Does the package include everything needed for mounting the units?
Yes, the package is installation-ready. It includes one mounting bracket with screws specifically for the receiver unit, plus two sets of rubber feet that can be applied to both the transmitter and receiver for non-slip placement on desks or shelves. This provides flexibility for both permanent mounted installations and temporary desktop setups.
What certifications or compliance does this product have?
The ST121UTP is TAA (Trade Agreements Act) compliant, making it suitable for U.S. government procurement. It is also environmentally friendly, complying with EU RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals), and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive) standards. The product is backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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