RCA Component Cable

RCA Component Cables

To maximize the progressive scan on your television, use component cables in lieu of composite or S-Video cables.

RCA Component Video is one of the highest video qualities on today’s audio/video market, superseding S-video and composite video. It provides great signal clarity and better picture quality. Component Video works by separating luminance (Y) and two color signals (R-Y and B-Y). The component video hardware interface is RCA. The three signals (Y, R-Y, B-Y) is divided into three RCA plugs. The first plug (Y or green) is the luminance signal, which indicates brightness or black & white information. The other two plugs (blue and red) are the signals that indicate how much blue and red there is relative to luminance. While component video is an RGB signal, green (G) is not transmitted because it is inferred from the R-Y and B-Y signals. Due to this separation of signals, component video is a superior form of video transmission. Component video is often paired and sold along with Toslink and RCA audio cables.

The Difference between Component Video, HDMI, and DVI

Component Video, DVI, and HDMI cables support a variety of resolutions and split signals into three distinct color components. There are two major differences between HDMI and DVI. One, is that HDMI and DVI are digital signal while component video is analog. The other is that while HDMI and DVI use "Transition Minimized Differential Signaling" (TMDS). TMDS uses the blue channel to sync the horizontal and vertical sync while composite video syncs on the luminance (Y) channel.

The Difference between Component Video and Composite Video

Although very similar to RCA Composite cables, RCA Component cables are a very different form of video transmission. While composite video utilizes one video line and 2 audio, component video uses two or more video channels (3 is the most common) with audio cables being paired with or sold separately.

Many have free RCA cables lying around from past equipment and whatnot. If you opt to use these cables rather than specifically designed component cables, keep in mind that standard cables are color coded, so you must match the green, red, and blue jacks with the same wire on both ends of the component connection. Additionally, please note that component video cables have higher quality picture, better shielding coverage, and lower impedance levels.

Additional Notes

For unsurpassed quality, check out our composite video cables—they feature 24K gold plating, giving your excellent connectivity, lost lasting durability, and great signal performance. If you have any questions or pricing inquiries, feel free to give us a call at 951-824-1571.