RCA

  1. Cable Switches

     

    Cable switches are used to connect multiple signal inputs (computers, DVD players, video game consoles, etc.) to a single output (televisions, computer monitors, etc.). Switches all work on the same general principle and most are purely mechanical. A switch only goes from multiple inputs to one output; if you need to go from one input to multiple outputs, you will need a splitter instead.

    Switches are used when you have a screen, such as a TV or computer monitor, that does not have enough ports. For example, say you have a TV with one HDMI port but you want to connect a DVD player, a laptop, and a video game console. One option would be to constantly reach behind the TV and switch the cables, but that gets old fast. The simpler solution would be using a switch that connects all three devices to the TV and lets you change between them at the push of a button.

    Most switches are mechanical and do not require a power cable to work. The inside of a switch works similar to switching the rails

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  2. Audio & Video Cables

     

    Audio and video cables go hand-in-hand, often being paired together. Some cables can even transmit audio and video on just one line. Over time a lot of new audio and video cables have been introduced, so the cable you need will often depend on the age of the equipment you are using. Most TVs, computers, and other devices can use multiple types of audio and video connections, so it is good to be able to identify them and know your options.

     

    Key Takeaways

     

    • Audio and video cables connect equipment and transmit analogue or digital sound and image signals.
    • Common audio cables include XLR, RCA, 3.5mm, TRS, speaker, and digital audio cables.
    • Common video cables include HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, composite, component, S-Video, and BNC cables.
    • Some interfaces, such as HDMI, can transmit both audio and video.
    • Always identify the connector and signal type before selecting a cable.
    • Cable length, shielding, construction, and signal requirements can affect system performance.
    • For video, consider
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