NewTek TriCaster 855 User Manual
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according to the quality of video signal they provide (and as things go, in the reverse order of
their cost, and the likelihood that you will have access to them):
Composite – a two conductor design using the classic RCA connector (also referred to as a phono
connector or CINCH/AV connector)
Y/C – typically using a round, 4-pin mini-DIN connector or two BNC connectors, Y/C keeps Y
(luminance) and C (chrominance) signals separate.
Hint: Y/C is occasionally called “component” (which while technically correct, can be a bit
confusing given the name of the next class), S-Video (legitimate) or “S-VHS” (completely incorrect,
though a common error.)
Component (a.k.a. ‘YUV’ or ‘Y, Pb, Pr’) – a three wire system typically using BNC (push & twist-on)
connectors.
For analog connections, either of the last two methods is to be preferred – but it is entirely
possible to succeed with only a composite signal. When you have something better available,
however, you should naturally use it. (Try to avoid downgrading the pre-LiveMatte signal from a
Y/C camera, for example, by connecting it to your TriCaster using composite cabling.)
Hint: cameras using IEEE 1394 connection (such as mini-DV or HDV format) are not supported as
live switching sources, for several reasons. However they may often be connected by Y/C cable
(mini-DV cameras only) or Component cabling. This configuration may actually provide a better
color rendition for keying purpose than if it were possible to connect them by IEEE1394 cable.