So i tried to connect steamdeck to pc using usb and i read its immpossible because steamdeck is a computer and some explanation on quora about strong master slave relationship. But then why is it possible for android phones to connect to pc whilist also having the ability to use USB and other usb c accesories. Also why cant it be a toggle? So that you can change whetewer this usb( or device ) is reciving data ot sending data .

  • TimeSquirrel@kbin.social
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    12
    ·
    edit-2
    6 months ago

    Ethernet had this figured out almost 30 years ago with auto-negotiation. Last crossover cable I ever used was in 2004 for a customer’s old hub they didn’t want to replace. Yes, “hub”, not “switch”.

    • Markaos@lemmy.one
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      5
      ·
      6 months ago

      Not a fair comparison IMHO - Ethernet is designed to be a connection between two or more otherwise independent peers (on L2), while USB’s goal was to allow connecting simple peripheral devices to computers. There was never meant to be a situation where it’s unclear which side is the Host.

      Also note that the bridging “cable” is literally just two USB devices, one for each computer (although they are both on the same chip, so there’s that), with some internal link to pass the data.