I need to run a usb cable through an outside wall or window frame . Obviously this means drilling a hole that the usb plug can fit through, but this hole would need to be at least 16mm diameter.  Is it possible to get a usb cable where I can fit the the plug on myself? The hole would then only need to be about 5mm. TIA.

As USB can carry voltage, is the end to be outside or anywhere damp? Plugging in a wet connector isn't recommended unless you want to fry something

Maplin will sell you all you need.

How about a flat cable?

The wires inside a USB cable are EXTREMELY fine, you will need excellent soldering skills and the right size soldering iron to do anything useful; probably easier and cheaper to drill the bigger hole then fill it with mastic afterwards.

Another Idea is to use a mini or micro USB cable to get through a smaller hole and use an adapter

What about using CAT5 adapter and make your own cable that can be threaded through a smaller hole?

 

Can I ask what it is for?

There is only 5 volts on a USB cable. You could cut the cable,and join it inside with a small strip of terminal block,There are only 4 wires to join ,colour to colour,

Edited 12 March, 201412 yr by AndyPandy

Thanks to all who answered.  I'm expecting very soon a USB infra-red CCTv camera, it's only for watching my dog when he's in the back garden, and I just wanted to get the cable from the camera, which will be outside,  to my computer, which is obviously inside.  Was hoping to just cut the plug off, feed it though a 5mm hole, then just put another plug on.  It looks like it might not be as simple as that.

@AndyPandy, do I have to use a fifth terminal for the foil and mesh shielding of the cable?

There is only 5 volts on a USB cable. You could cut the cable,and join it inside with a small strip of terminal block,There are only 4 wires to join ,colour to colour,

Yes, but it'll be running 500ma and any shorts will fry a USB controller

Thanks to all who answered.  I'm expecting very soon a USB infra-red CCTv camera, it's only for watching my dog when he's in the back garden, and I just wanted to get the cable from the camera, which will be outside,  to my computer, which is obviously inside.  Was hoping to just cut the plug off, feed it though a 5mm hole, then just put another plug on.  It looks like it might not be as simple as that.

@AndyPandy, do I have to use a fifth terminal for the foil and mesh shielding of the cable?

Is it designed for outdoors use? I'd be surprised if it was a and had a USB connection.