Can you use standard RCA plugs for component video or are special plugs needed?
2007-11-17 19:07:30 · 3 answers · asked by ging 1 in Consumer Electronics ➔ Home Theater
In general RCA (phono) connectors are fairly similar in design. For the average consumer electronics video application standard RCA phono connectors will be adequate; “special (phono) plugs” are not necessary.
However when attempting to fully comply with the 75-Ohm characteristic impedance specification for analog video there are a few specific brands and models—frequently referred to as “True 75-Ohm RCA” connectors—that are much better than your standard, run-of-the-mill RCA phono connector. While not perfect (design limitations inherent in the RCA phono connector make this impossible...,) the connectors listed below are the best 75-Ohm RCA phono connectors currently available for impedance-critical consumer electronics applications such as analog video.
Note: if you intend to assemble your own interconnects you must use the proper termination tools, often recommended by each connector manufacturer, in order to properly install the connectors listed below.
ADC 75 Ohm BNC, F, and RCA Connectors
https://www6.adc.com/ecom/hier?NODE=OND63699
Canare RCAP-C Series 75 Ohm RCA Crimp Plug
http://www.canare.com/index.cfm?objectid=69A21757-3048-7098-AF7C2430D0128959
Comprehensive Premium True 75 Ohm RCA Plug
http://www.comprehensiveinc.com/category.asp?category_name=RCA+Audio+Connectors&Page=1
Precision Video Coaxial Cables Part 1: Impedance
http://www.beldencdt.com/pdfs/PDF/Precision%20Video%20Cables%20Part%201.pdf
Belden Video and UTP White Paper
http://www.belden.com/pdfs/Techpprs/VideoandUTP.pdf
Component Cables vs Composite
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070425141234AADch1S
2007-11-17 21:35:38 · answer #1 · answered by ? 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Standard RCA connectors work. Component video cables are only color coded for the ease of connection, nothing more. They're the same as regular audio cables. Happy home theatering!
2007-11-18 00:12:07 · answer #2 · answered by WenwAudiocom 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Antiphon did a great job with his post.
RCA plugs are actually rather Horrible for video. The cheep "F" connector on your CATV coax is actually superior. Professional gear use BNC connectors which are basically quick-release versions of "F" connectors.
If you are going to do your own cables, the Canare plugs are well respected.
If you want to buy cables with the Canare plugs, check out BlueJeans.
2007-11-18 09:49:44 · answer #3 · answered by Grumpy Mac 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Standard ones work, but you'll loose quality to unproperly shielded crappy wires. If you spent all the money on the tv, get some decent wires intended for the job.
2007-11-17 19:16:51 · answer #4 · answered by Collector of Sorrows 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋