Cables

Cables

Composite video is an analogue transmission that sends a signal of standard definition at 480i and 576i. It is used for standard format such as NTSC, PAL and SECAM. Unlike S-video and Component it only carries 1 signal.

S-video is another analogue cable carrying standard definition at 480i and 576i. S-video achieves a better image than composite by separating black and white colour signals, but it has a lower resolution than component video. Each pin has its own group pin, thats why there a four pins. The fifth pin is for holding purposes.

Component video is analogue but it distributes the colour signal three ways, red, green, blue. Component has the capability for full HD resolution, but extra conversion must take place, due to the nature of digital TV's, this creates artefacts (edge clarity)

VGA is commonly used for computer monitors and connects to video cards, HDTV's, laptops, notebooks and can also be used for other equipment. VGA uses the same signal method as component cable, RGB. VGA allows for higher resolutions, raging from 640x400 all the way to 2048x1536. Just like most higher resolution cables, VGA has coaxial wiring and insulation which provides for higher quality. VAG does not carry audio.

DVI is a digital cable, this means that there is no loss of quality. Often they are used for HDTV's and video cards. There are three main types of DVI cables: DVI-D, DVI-A, DVI-I. The cable comes in single and duel link. Its resolutions up to 3840x2400. Just like VGA, DVI does't carry audio.

HDMI is used on many different devices for example computers, cameras, monitors and blue-ray players. HDMI is a digital cable which means no loss of signal, it carries both video and audio. There are three main versions of HDMI cables, Version 1.0, 1.4 and 2.0. Version 1.0 allowed for 1920x1080p. Version 1.4 supports ethernet, 3D and 3840x2160 at 30fps. And version 2.0 supports 3840x2160p at 60fps.

RCA Connector is analogue. Two of the cables are for audio and one is for video. RCA is commonly is used for stereo equipment, often consumer grade. Still used by many devices before and after the digital switch over (VHS, DVD players and TVs) RCAs lose quality over distance and are susceptible to hum and noise.

1/4 jack and 1/8 jack (3.5mm) are audio cables and don't have video. 3.55 is found on phones, DSLR's (these cables are intended for short runs). 1/4 jack is used for audio recording equipment, stereo equipment, guitar and bass leads.

XLR connector is most commonly used for microphones. The XLR has three pins, similar to the balanced connection on a 3.5mm or 1/4mm jack. The female end of the XLR is usually the source and the male is the input. Due to the design, the microphone wont disconnect on its own, it has a button that manualy needs to be pressed .