So, got this 10-moth-old Yellow Lab.

So, said Yellow Lab ate (well, chewed the piss out of) the cable that connects the computer to the APC UPS.

Said cable looks an awful lot like a USB printer cable.

Before I hook up a USB printer cable I have on the shelf does anybody know if that APC cable is, in fact, a printer cable or will there be sparks and arcs and the smell of burning plastic?

I can order one from APC but I'd rather not if a printer cable will work and I'd rather not take the cost of said APC cable out of the dog's hide; he is a Lab puppy and they eat any- and everything they can get their mouths around.

I have, however, severely chastised him and he did look suitably chastened.

Thanks.

I think you may need to spend more time with your puppy.
I've known people whose puppy's have almost broken through "drywall" to get at where their master was.
Look after the puppy -- if it needs more attention then take time off work to work it out.

What APC unit is it? Some use regular USB, but it is possible they're using something a bit more proprietary. I can't remember what mine looks like, but I was thinking it was a USB on one side and then almost like an ethernet on the other, but it has been a long time since I've looked (probably 3 or so years), so my memory could be completely off.

It's a APC Back Up XS 1000.

It's USB on one end, what actually looks like an Ethernet plug on the other end.

So, nope, not a cable I've got laying around, gonna have to order it.

Dammit.

No name for $15 from amazon (prime eligible)

http://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-S...dp/B004DVEWHY/

Or APC brand for $35, but there's a used one for just over $20 that's also prime eligible.

http://www.amazon.com/APC-AP9827-USB...dp/B0002WYJSU/

Be sure to check the other sellers of the items to make sure you get the best price.

Thanks you for that -- I'll keep it in mind for the next time.

I called APC tech support and, because the unit is still in warranty, they're sending a cable gratis.

Can't beat that with a stick.

I did sort of figure out that it's a USB-RJ-45 and, because it can be connected to Ethernet, my bet is that it's a standard cable that can be got from other sources (such as you suggest). Love to go to Best Buy and get one but it's a 100 mile one-way trip to the nearest Best Buy, Amazon no-name for $15 plus shipping would be a good choice and 15 minutes on the phone turned out to be the most productive; the cable will be here in a couple of days.

Thanks again for the info.

I don't think I would've thought to call APC directly even if it was still under warranty, so good idea

But I don't think USB to Ethernet is a common cable and I'd be surprised if Best Buy sold them in stores, so probably a good idea you didn't make the trek.

The tech support guy suggested that first (till I told him just how much in the boonies I am), then he looked into a warranty replacement. Apparently Best Buy carries their products? Dunno.

My real first choice would have been Micro Center, with whom I've had great service and astonishing selection and pricing. They have stores spread around the country and if you ever go into one be prepared to spend a few hours drooling on things; I mean drives (of all kinds) on grocery shelves, displays, systems, books, toys, tools, connectors, cables, whatever you can think of in the way of computers and electronics. Stuff you literally cannot find elsewhere in my experience. Got a Blue Ray burner for $50 when they were going for much, much more a few years ago (still got it, still works).

Anyway, all is well that ends.

I know Best Buy carries the UPSs, but I'd be really surprised if they had such a specific cable in their stores. They probably only carry the USB-A to the various USB-B connectors.

That reminds me of CompUSA. Unfortunately, no Micro Centers anywhere near me.

Go pet your puppy, willya?

Hi...

Hey, if you would, please watch the language? I have no doubts that those of all ages, including under 18 (and younger than that) visit these forums.

Thanks!

Hard not to -- he's 60 pounds of wiggle, hair, teeth and tail.