Composite video (CVBS - colour, video, blanking, sync) is a format used for the transmission and storage of analogue video signals. The luminance Y (brightness) signal, together with the blanking and sync, are sent normally (baseband). The chrominance (colour difference) U + V signals are first modulated onto a subcarrier frequency in quadrature (90 degrees phase apart).

Composite video connections (single wire plus ground connection) are found on consumer and professional equipment which include analogue video inputs and outputs. Typically they use an RCA (AKA Phono) connector, often yellow in colour, or a BNC connector. Composite video cable should have a characteristic impedance of 75 Ohms and is usually coaxial cable.

• For storage on Analogue Video Tape, the CVBS signal is modulated onto an RF carrier signal. The sound signal is added on a linear track.
• For broadcast, the CVBS signal is modulated onto a UHF carrier signal (vestigial sideband modulation). The sound signal is added on a sub-carrier frequency.

See Also

• PAL
• SECAM
• NTSC
• Television Channel