If you have ever tried to keep up with technology, you will be well aware that it is just not possible. The wonderful world of multimedia cables is no different, so to help you we have created this top 5 guide.
These cables are the 5 most popular leads around at the moment. Although this is a top 5 list we are also looking to give a little bit of information about the uses of each of these 5 cables.
HDMI Cable – HDMI cables are out-selling other leads by far. It’s rise to fame is all down to the introduction of High Definition televisions. HDMI cables are used to connect these high def tv’s to hd devices like sky hd and blu-ray players . The current standard for HDMI is 1.4, offering higher bandwidth and faster transfer speeds. HDMI cables are classed as digital cables.
Optical Cable – Optical cables are used for sending digital sound, normally to digital amps or hi-fi’s. Whilst HDMI Cables can carry both Audio and Video Signals, Optical cables can only carry sound. Optical cables are often referred to as Toslink cables, derived for Toshiba, who invented them. These fibre optica cables work by transfering data in the form of light, and are therefore classed as digital cables.
Component Cables – Many people use Component cables as an high definition alternative for connecting their sky boxes or games consoles. Component cables are only able to carry audio signals, unlike it’s HDMI counterpart, which can handle audio and video signals. Contrary to popular belief component cables are NOT digital cables, they in fact fall into the analogue category. Don’t let this fool you, Component cables can still produce 1080i resolutions.
SCART to USB – Beleive it or not, people are still using VHS videos to view old archieved video footage. SCART to USB Cables offer a cheap way to put all of these old videos onto a digital format. What are you waiting for? You can now sell your VHS player on ebay or at a car boot sale and clear out some space. SCART to USB kits are very simple to use and come complete with the software needed. It is worth remembering though that video files can be very large, so make sure you have enough room on your hard drive.
iPod/iPhone Cables – The versatility of the iPhone, and the popularity of the iPod has meant that accessories, including cables are extremely popular. There are 2 cables in particular that seem to be catching on. The cable used to connect iPods/iPhones to your computer. The second is 3.5mm stereo cables, these are used, for plugging iPods into your hi-fi or car stereo.
We hope this guide has helped you. That is of course provided the latest revolution in home and personal entertainment is not launched tomorrow.