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Non Gaming Discussions => Off-Topic => Topic started by: Zavijava on January 11, 2002, 09:44:17 AM

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: Zavijava on January 11, 2002, 09:44:17 AM

My dilemma: My television has only two component video inputs, but soon I will need the use of three. Does such an item exist(component switch box), or am I misunderstanding the concept of a switch box altogether.

Currently, I have my progressive scan DVD player connected to my HDTV, so I need to keep that connection, and thus not degrade to S-Video, and I have my PS2 running via component as well. I will be getting, and about friken time, an HDTV decoder box and if I am unable to accomodate all three signals, I\'m afraid the ol\' PS2 will be getting the shove-down to S-video. I really would rather not do this, for I have made the comparison between the two and I have become rather fond of the quality that the component signal provides, but, I will be forced to if there are no other options.

Videoholic, THX, Coredweller....help?

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: Coredweller on January 11, 2002, 11:42:16 AM

Yes, they make switchboxes designed for component video source switching.  Here is an example:

http://www.bettercables.com/keydigcomvid.html

I know they are not all this expensive.  You can definitely get ones that are simply a manual switching mechanism, but I didn\'t have time to find a link.  

One thing you should consider is purchasing a better home theater receiver, with several component video inputs.  This will make it easier for you to switch video and audio sources simultaneously.

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: CygnusXI on January 11, 2002, 11:48:55 AM

Dang.

There\'s an awesome cord that\'s exclusive to either Target or Toys R Us.

It has 3 PS/PS2 connectors on one end (You know that funky one that goes into the PS2) and ONE set of RCA jacks (red/white/yellow) and a S-video connector on the other end.

Basically you hook up all 3 units into one feed to your TV/Surround sound. Since you only have one on at a time it works great.!!

I have a Pelican switch box, it\'s a pain sometimes. I will prolly get this new cable. Less wiring, no thinking:D

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: Zavijava on January 11, 2002, 11:57:15 AM

Thanks for the info.

I had completely disregarded my receiver as an option. I have three component connections on the back of my receiver (2 in and 1 out), which in theory would accomodate all my connection needs without requiring a switch box, right? However, would there not be some signal degradation by relaying the signal through the receiver, as opposed to sending the signal directly from the source?

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: THX on January 11, 2002, 12:00:53 PM

Good choice Cored.  As for the component switchers themselves, make sure they are capable of handling at least 35 MHz (can get up to if 120 MHz I remember correctly) of video bandwidth.  Anything less and it is not a true HD signal due to a limited amount of bandwidth.  It will still look better than standard definition, but you are missing what you paid for.

When receivers claim component video switching, and maybe even HD switching component connections, make sure you read up on the model # and do your research.  I subscribe to HT Mag, which tells if the component connections really provide 35 MHz of bandwidth, you\'ll be suprised that many big names such as Onkyo and Yamaha do not.  All of Denon\'s receivers support it, and a few other ones that cost over $650.

Here\'s (http://www.hometheatermag.com/showarchives.cgi?89) a nice little article explaining it and giving you some switcher choices.

Title: Component Video Switch Box?
Post by: Zavijava on January 11, 2002, 12:05:22 PM

I appreciate the input everyone. I\'ll send the HD signal directly, and I fuss over the other two later.

Thanks.