Composite is the lowest common denominator of video signals. A composite signal runs
all color and brightness information on a single cable, resulting in lower-quality video
compared to the quality of other formats. Nearly all video devices have a composite input
and output. This format uses a single RCA or BNC connector.

In professional editing environments, composite video signals are most commonly used
for troubleshooting, for menu outputs, and for low-quality preview monitoring. For
consumer and home use, composite signals are often used to connect VCRs or DVD
players to televisions.

RCA connector

BNC connector

S-Video

S-Video, also known as Y/C, is a higher-quality video signal used by high-end consumer
video equipment. The image looks sharper and has better color than a composite video
image because S-Video keeps the color and brightness information separate on two
cables. Most low-cost analog-to-digital video interfaces have S-Video as their
highest-quality video connector. Use care when working with S-video connectors; the
four delicate pins can be bent easily.

S-Video connector

505

Appendix C

Working with Professional Video and Audio Equipment