Cables

Composite Video
(analogue)
Analogue transmission can carry standard definition and is used for formats such as NTSC, PAL and SECAM. It also only carries 1 signal, unlike S-Video or Component. They are used for appliances like VHS and old games consoles.

DVI Cable
(digital)
DVI is a digital cable, meaning no loss in quality. It is also often found on HDTVs and Video cards. There are three main types of DVI cables; (DVI-I, DVI-A and DVI-I.) The cable comes in single and dual link and has a resolution of up to 3840x2400 but there is no audio.

HDMI
(digital)
HDMI is used on many different devices ranging from computers, cameras, monitors, and blu-ray players. HDMI is a single cable that carries video and audio signals digitally, meaning no loss of signal.
Version 1.0 allowed for 1920x1080p
Version 1.4 supports ethernet, 3D and 3840x2160p at 30fps
Version 2.0 supports 3840x2160 at 60fps

S-Video
(analogue)
Analogue cable carrying standard definition (480i and 576i.) Separates black and white colour signals, achieving a better image than composite, but lower resolution than component video. Each pin has its own ground pin (fifth, bottom pin is for holding purposes.)





Component Video
(analogue)
RGB distributes the colour signal three ways (red, green, blue.) It allows for full HD resolution, however due to the nature of digital TV's, extra conversion must take place therefore creating artifacts (edge clarity.) Not all HD sources support progressive output, so it may be limited to 1080i.

VGA
(analogue)

A VGA cable is typically used for computer monitors and connects to video cards, HDTVs. Laptops, Netbooks and an array of other equipment. A VGA cable uses the same RGB method as a component cable and also allows higher resolutions ranging from 640x400 all the way up to 2048x1536. The higher resolution cables normally require coaxial wiring or insulation to create the higer quality image. Even though it can have a higher resolution the VGA cable does not carry audio

.

RCA Connector
(analogue)

An RCA cable is used to carry audio and video signals and it is primarily used for stereo equipment, often consumer grade. It is still used by many devices before and after the digital switchover (VHS,DVD players and TVs) The RCA cable can lose quality over the distance and is also susceptible to hum and noise.

1/4 and 1/8 Jack (3.5mm)
(phone connector - analogue)

The 3.5mm is found on phones, DSLRs and other mp3 enabled devices and is intended for short runs whilst a 1/4 jack is used for stereo equipment, guitar and bass leads. 

XLR Connector
(digital)

This is the most common cable that is used for microphones. It has 3 pins, similar to the blanced connection on a 3.5mm or a 1/4 jack. The female end is usually the source and the male is the input. Also because of the design a microphone cable will not disconnect on its own accord.