Abstract: A high speed single bridge system providing network and data transfer capabilities, implemented via standard input/output (I/O) devices, protocols, cables and components, to interconnect two or more host computing systems, and to provide connections to peripherals. One aspect of the invention connects two or more host systems via USB ports and cables, establishing network, control, data exchange, and power management required to route and transfer data at high speeds. A second aspect provides for a symmetrical port that senses Host and Peripheral connections so as to provide a single apparatus for connecting Hosts and Peripherals at any port. Requiring only a single link, the invention requires significantly fewer components than existing designs. The method describes how two or more connected host systems detect one another, and establish separate control communication and data exchange bridges, wherein control sequences generated by an application on a host direct operation of the bridging apparatus.

Abstract: A high speed single bridge system providing network and data transfer capabilities, implemented via standard input/output (I/O) devices, protocols, cables and components, to interconnect two or more host computing systems, and to provide connections to peripherals. One aspect of the invention connects two or more host systems via USB ports and cables, establishing network, control, data exchange, and power management required to route and transfer data at high speeds. A second aspect provides for a symmetrical port that senses Host and Peripheral connections so as to provide a single apparatus for connecting Hosts and Peripherals at any port. Requiring only a single link, the invention requires significantly fewer components than existing designs. The method describes how two or more connected host systems detect one another, and establish separate control communication and data exchange bridges, wherein control sequences generated by an application on a host direct operation of the bridging apparatus.