Component Video Cables Guide Conclusion

Conclusion

This article outlined the basic design principles and parameters used to design and help choose a component video cable. Based on the lengthy discussions in each section, marketing schemes such as the misuse of the term skin effect and the entirely made up term known as "strand jumping" were found to have insignificant deleterious effects on video cable performance. We also discussed differences between conductors (stranded and solid), differences in RCA connectors and how by their geometry, they can not be true 75-ohms as well as the lack of importance thereof, importance in shielding and techniques used during manufacturing, all of which are vital considerations in the design and build of a quality component video cable.

The fact is there is no substitute for sound engineering and manufacturing techniques for creating 75-ohm component video cables. Don't be fooled by too good to be true marketing claims that are abundant when considering the multitude of cables on the market. Use the information in this article as a general guideline in helping with selecting the cable that is within your budget and offers the best performance for the money.

Happy Viewing!

3/08/03: Component Video Cable - Revision C
This article has been edited to update the explanation of RCA connectors and how they can not be 75-ohms by their geometry.

1/29/03: Component Video Cable - Revision B
This article has been edited to clarify issues regarding wire gauge, skin effect and braided shields.

Peer Review - This article has been reviewed by the following helpful people.

• Gene DellaSala - Electrical Engineer, HAA Certified Level 1
  

• Mike Duda - Electrical Engineer Staff Member

• Rick Rome - Custom Home Theater Installer and ISF Trained Technician, Staff Member

SOURCES

AV Cable
http://www.avcable.com

Madison Cable
http://www.madisoncable.com/

C & M Corporation

http://www.cm-corp.com/frameset.asp?Page=dgThermoplastics.htm

Dupont

http://www.dupont.com/industrial-polymers/elvaloy/loy_pvc3.html

Gore Electronic Products

http://www.goreelectronics.com/products/bulk_cable/Bulk_Precision_Coaxial_Cable.html

West Penn Wire

http://www.westpenn-cdt.com/newpdfs/T176o177.pdf

NAVAIR Weapons Division

https://ewhdbks.mugu.navy.mil/VSWR.htm

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