>>>How long can a USB cable be?
>>>
>>>Is there a maximum distance from computer to hardware?
>>
>>5 metres (15 feet) . You can extend this distance by 5 metre segments with USB hubs
>
>
>Great so the hubs act as a repeater then?
>
>Is there a limit on hubs?

That part I don't know. www.usbman.com is a great source.