What is a bridge? In computing, a bridge is a connector that is able to route between two or more devices. A simple connection is when one device is plugged into a computer with a USB cable; often the two devices can communicate without any special software. If two or more computers are to be connected in a network, or if the connected devices are diverse, then hardware such as a smart bridge becomes needed.
This type of bridge is able to tell the difference between devices and can send signals to different places according to instructions. In other words, this routing device has its own processor and software and can handle complex requests without depending on another machine to make most decisions. This is great because it frees up resources and makes it so only one connected device is needed for a small office or household.
One example is a wireless device that plugs into the wall and can be used to command all the remote-controlled lighting in a house to turn on and off. There are smart bridges for controlling personal voice-activated assistants or to connect devices wirelessly. These devices are considered smart rather than routers because they can receive wireless signals and draw data from the internet in some cases.
Another type of bridge is in the form of a plugin wireless charging station. It might connect to a wall jack or else to the USB port on a computer. The great thing about these extensions is that they can connect four or more devices at the same time fro both charging and data collection. For a laptop especially, this type of connection can provide extra USB ports when others are occupied by a mouse or an external hard drive.
In the case of a plugin jack, the device might be used primarily as a charging station or might be able to relay signals. Straight chargers are less expensive than routers, but they have the brains to tell between devices and supply the appropriate charge. Normally, charging small devices with a random current can be dangerous, but a smart bridge meant for charging will usually supply the correct voltage.
Whatever the needs of the customer, there is an outlet or bridge for home needs. Small devices can be installed in a wide number of ways for perfect convenience and extra place to charge. A desk no longer has to be next to a wall outlet with a handy extension.