component video

[ashworthington]

To a DVD numpty like me, this site is proving very useful.

My new question is about component video connections. Can someone explain what it is (in easy terms) and if it is important. Also, do I need a certain receiver/tv etc to make it viable? I have a 10 year old TV and a 6 year old Pro Logic amp?
Tks

[dvd_rulez]

This one a bit difficult to explain, you should visit this FAQ site (http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html#3.2) for details.

[iluvdts]

OK, here goes: (Please don't get confused between COMPONENT & COMPOSITE signals!!)

In order to get a a video signal from a component connection, your DVD player and display device MUST have the appropriate connections. It's no good insisting on a Component Video output if you tv has only S-video or Composite Video inputs.
The back of your tv and DVD player will have COMPONENT VIDEO clearly marked (or just look for the green - blue - red inputs that are grouped together) if indeed they support this connection at all. A quick rundown of Component Video: the colours you see on your tv are created by mixing together just 3 colours - Green - Blue - Red. In a Composite Video signal, these green, blue, red signals are mixed together into a single combination "colour" signal, which inturn is mixed with the "brightness" signal - put them together and presto, you have a picture. However, when they mix the signals this way, there is a significant reduction in picture quality. The Component Video signal uses the "brightness" signal and the two colour difference signals to rectify this - it seperates three colour signals to provide a far more superior picture. WHOA - hope that somehow clears it up a little for you?!?!

[ashworthington]

Thanks for the comprehensive breakdown ...