The cables you use to connect your electronic devices are just as important as the devices themselves. You may have an HDTV and a Blu-ray player, but if you don't use the correct cables to connect them, you won't be getting their full use. Even if you don't have the latest in high-definition technology, you still want your video to look as good as it can. There are several types of video cables to choose from, and one of the most popular are called composite cables. Read on to learn more about them, and if they are really the ones you should be using.

What are Video Cables?

Video cables are designed to bring images to your screen. There are two types of video cables, digital and analog. Digital cables provide the best picture for high definition, but the options are more limited. An HDMI cable is the only real choice. Most cables are still analog. Still, some deliver higher quality than others. Digital is ideal for hooking up high-quality equipment with an HDTV. If you are using older equipment that is not compatible with a digital cable, it is best to use the highest quality analog cable possible.

How do Composite Cables Compare to Others?

Unfortunately, composite cables are one of the lowest-quality cables available. The highest quality analog cable is called component video, and it is the only analog cable capable of projecting high definition. Below that, composite and another type called S-Video are the best options, with S-Video being the better option. Both composite and S-Video can project up to 480i resolution (compared to the 1080p resolution of component video); however, S-Video projects color and brightness along different paths. This allows them to be processed separately, causing less interference and projecting a sharper image.

What are the Advantages of Composite Cables?

The only real advantage of composite cables is that they are the most readily available. When you buy new equipment, they will most likely be included. This can make it tempting to stick with them, as they save you the hassle of shopping around for a new set of cables. However, they are among the lowest quality cables still in use, and only really suitable for use on old equipment. There is one type of cable that is of higher quality, and that is an RF cable. These cables are designed specifically for connecting your A/V system with an antenna or other outdoor source, and deliver the lowest possible quality if you attempt to use them for anything else.

How do You Get the Most Out of Your Video Cables?

Whatever cables you end up using, there are a few tips that can help you get the most use out of them. Try to keep them as far away from power cords as possible, as this can create interference in the signal. Always make sure your equipment is turned off before trying to connect any new cables. Check for corrosion around metal plugs at least once a year or so. Try to avoid bending the cables, as this will cause damage. When buying cables, look for ones that have double-shielding to help prevent damage.

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