How long can a USB 3.0 cable be before the signal degrades?

What is a USB 3.0 cable?
Essentially, USB 3.0 supports cables with a data rate of up to 5Gbps, which makes the USB 3.0 popular in use today. These cables, rather more of an essential tool allow for easy fixed connection between cameras/camcorders and computers, for efficient usage of high quality videos or images. Despite promising reliable signal transmission over the period, overtime usage tends to diminish performance.

Main causes of signal degradation
Physical wear: Overtime, the cables used are beaten and torn so the inner and outer layer of the USB can get damaged. However there are a few factors such as constant bending and pulling that can further exacerbate the issue leading to a reduced quality. 

Worn out connectors: The reason for the degradation in quality of the USBs signal is due to constant plugging and unplugging the USB which increases the age of the connectors.

Environmental factors: Extremely high temperatures together with humidity or an excessive concentration of dust can be a great threat to cable materials making it difficult for the cables to function properly. Environmental shielding of the cable interconnects is rendered ineffective by these environmental factors exposing the signal to external interference.

Symptoms of signal attenuation of USB 3.0 cable
Several symptoms of signal attenuation are evident when USB 3.0 cable has been used in cameras or camcorders for a considerable duration of time:

-The speed at which information circulates decreases significantly.
-Persistent interruptions of images and video transmission.
-The device does not manage to establish and maintain a stable connection regardless of the number of attempts made.

Even though these issues would not show up in an instant but with the increase in the duration of time and use they are prone to gradually become visible.

How to reduce attenuation of signal over time?
To ensure that there is little to no physical wear, avoid subjecting the cable to too much force from bending during connection or use. A thorough cleaning of the connector will also allow a better transmission of the signal through the contact surfaces. Use a special cleaner or a soft cloth to clean up the interface normally used for connection.

Pick a good quality USB 3.0 cable. Having a good quality cable usually means longer life, due to usage of better and more durable materials, therefore more resistant to mechanical damage and the influence of a surrounding environment.

When USB 3.0 cables are placed inside a camera or a webcam for too long, over time the signal will weaken, it is a physical factor which can not be circumvented. Nonetheless, a proper manner of management and correct application of the gadget leads to slower deterioration in terms of its efficiency even in the face of signal loss over time. Using a good usb 3.0 cable serves as a good precaution against this problem.