Frequently Asked Questions
Video cable
It seems that most of our video questions are about SCART. We couldn't fit them all on one page so we've just answered the basic stuff. As always though if you need to know more just let us know.
Which type of video connection is the best?
Composite video is the lowest format, generally used with VCR's and some video cameras. It will produce a picture quality ranging from poor to average depending on the source. Most often recognised as a yellow RCA connection.
S-Video is a mid-range format. It is used with a variety of sources including media boxes, set top boxes as well as laptops and many pc video cards. It provides a fairly reasonable picture. Recognised as a smallish round plug with 4 pins inside.
Component video is a high quality signal type. It provides excellent resolution and colour depth. It is used on most DVD players, as well as many set top boxes and Foxtel systems. Until recently, with the increased popularity of HDMI, component was the preferred choice for high end picture quality. Component video will produce the same quality as HDMI when set at the same resolution and has the advantage of working over longer distances. Recognised as 3 RCA connections coloured red, green and blue.
Can I connect RGB to Component?
No. Although they are both generally a red, green and blue RCA connection they are transmitting 2 different signal types. This is a common problem encountered when connecting SCART plugs.
What is SCART?
It's an alien technology sent to confuse us and disrupt our otherwise peaceful existence.
A SCART plug or socket has 21 pins which can in theory be used for anything the manufacturer chooses. The standard configuration of SCART pins however carry component video, S-video, RGB, left right audio and a few others. Some of these are directional so they are input or output only. This can get confusing as the presence of a SCART socket doesn't mean a manufacturer has connected all these options. So always best to check your manual and we will also try and help if we can.