With my latest TV acquisition, video connection options have become a frequent conversation topic. Searching Google for a definitive listing, I quickly found this glossary from Crutchfield, which covers an exhaustive number of connections for both video, audio and data. For those not nearly as interested in connections, I'll sum up the video part from worst quality to best:
- Composite video: lowest analog quality, basic yellow video input.
- S-video: "seperate" video, seperates color and brightness in analog signal. Marginally better than composite
- Component video: Splits the color signal into two portions and brightness into another. Big improvement over S-video.
- DVI (Digital Visual Interface): Transfer video signals in pure digital form, are encrypted with HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection). Two kinds of DVI connections: DVI-D is found on most home video gear, carries digital-only signals. DVI-I, used with some computer video cards, is capable of passing both digital and analog video signals.
- HDMI: Used for passing standard- and high-definition digital video signals, as well as multi-channel digital audio, through a single cable. Accommodates up to 5 Gbps bandwidth to simultaneously transfer pure digital video and audio signals without compression. Signal is also encrypted with HDCP.
User Comments for 08-28-2006:
This is so 2005 Stavos |
you forgot coax...the absolute worse R1OT |
Actually Coax is still one of the best. Your HD signal still goes thru coax before it hits your tv. Air HD Satellite HD, Cable HD all use Coax before HDMI Stavos |
Or... you coulda just asked me, I know alllll those video standards Excelcier |
I believe coax HDTV is a digital signal. HD broadcasts go over the airwaves in a digital form as well. The formats listed above are more geared towards the "last jump" between reciever & Display. gabe |
You fail to use the resources around you. For this you should be ashamed. Please refer to my home theater snobbery for any future information. Duane |