What is a component video cable?

A component video cable uses is a type of video signal that divides a regular television signal into multiple parts. There are two types of component video: R-Y B-Y Y (YUV) and RGB. Splitting the signal into multiple parts eliminates the color crosstalk and smearing problem common with other cable types.

RGB is the simplest component video signal. It divides the picture into red, green, and blue signals. These three signals are generally accompanied by timing signals on one or two additional wires. This system is generally used in the United States with BNC connectors for computer monitors. In Europe, this system is generally used in conjunction with SCART connectors for television signals.

Another type of component video signal is R-Y, B-Y, Y or YUV. The YUV signal also divides the television signal into three parts. One of these parts is the luminance (Y), which is a black and white television signal. The other two parts are red minus the luminance (U) and blue minus the luminance (V). The third color, green, is calculated by the receiver from the red, blue, and luminance signals.