Analogue options
• RF: the lowest form of video distribution which can be used if the panel has an in-built tuner.
• Composite video: also referred to as CV or ‘comp’, this is baseband video in its simplest form.
• S-Video: offers better performance than composite and is sometimes called YC (Y=luminance, C=chrominance).
• Component: probably the most common connection method which uses the red, green and blue RCA connectors. This system offers great compatibility with other devices and switching systems.
• RGBHV: similar to component but with two extra connections which carry horizontal and vertical sync information. RCA connectors are sometimes used but mostly HD15 connectors.

Digital options
• DVI: Digital Video Interface was introduced into set top boxes and is now common on most HD STBs. DVI provides uncompressed digital video information at high resolutions.
• HDMI: High Definition Multimedia Interface is the latest form of digital connection that also incorporates eight channels of audio plus control information in the one cable.

Deciding which will work best for you depends on what else you have in the system. Good system design is not just about connecting the devices with the latest and greatest cable; it’s also about providing a simple-to-use solution. In some cases, this may mean that having less will achieve more.