How far dose the controller have to be from the string??????????

[grumpy2076]

I am working with smart string for the first time this year and would like to know dose the controller have to be close to the first bulb or can it be say three feet from it???


                Smart String             Controller                                                           Hub
    ------!--------!---------!---------!--{==}------------------------------------------------[------]

                                                          OR 
                Smart String                                                                                                          Controller                 Hub
    ------!--------!---------!---------!----------------------------------------------------------------------------{==}---------------[-----]

[chrisatpsu]

                Smart String             Controller                                                           Hub
    ------!--------!---------!---------!-***-{==}------------------------------------------------[------]
                                                 

***  keep under 5-6ft  (Your mileage may vary)

[loveroflife96]

Keep your first node as close as you can to your controller.  Optimal distance is 18" or less if you're running the full 128 nodes.  Distance from the controller to the HUB can be 100'. 

[taybrynn]

I keep most of mine right next to the display item, if not right on them.   Very close ensures reliability.   Use the cheap cat5 from the ss hub to the ssc to cover the distance needed.

[grumpy2076]

ok thanks for the help