ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the parameters and formats of the various video systems in common use. Video systems operate within various technical parameters, each of which is responsible for quantifying one of the attributes of the visual scene. The chapter also provides an overview of video technology that will allow the reader to better understand how video works, ask intelligent questions, and obtain the best possible results from the video system. Video operating systems create video signals in two basic configurations: component video and composite video. Electrically, each configuration may take the form of an analog or digital video signal. The composite video is the most prevalent configuration and is used in nearly all broadcast and home video systems. The widespread use of digital electronic signal-processing techniques has allowed video systems to move into the digital era. Digital video signals may be recorded, transmitted, and manipulated repeatedly with virtually no introduction of noise, distortion, or spurious signals.
