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Understanding the Cable Types for Your TV, Internet, and Voice Services

types of tv cables

We know that there are different types of ports, plugs, and cables available for connecting the TV box, modem, and other equipment. Here we have gathered all the equipment you need to have for cable TV connections and how they are used. So, let's say if you have a subscription for Spectrum voice, TV and internet services, or any other provider, you can have a clear understanding of these different connection types by sticking to this post. Without further ado, let us get started so you can actually connect your TV box with other devices. Having a basic knowledge of the equipment can help you with self-installation and you might not need to call a technician in the first place. Stay tuned and read on.

Coaxial Cable

The coaxial cables work well for keeping the TV signals strong. You can connect your TV with the TV box or other devices. These coaxial cables also work for the high-speed internet and home phone connections. 

Did You Know?

Coaxial cables are also often referred to as coax and come with four layers for better insulation. These layers help prevent any sort of frequency loss. The inner layers are covered with an outer black protective layer. 

RCA Cables

Also known as tri-colored cables, RCA cables have red, blue, and green tips and are used for connecting two devices. You have to make sure that each tip of the RCA cable is attached to the corresponding color port on the device. Mostly the red and white colors are meant for sound and video. However, nowadays HDMI cable is more commonly used. 

Composite Video

Composite video is a yellow-colored RCA cable that is used for connecting a TV to a DVD player. It is also used for connecting to a video game console. It usually comes along with the red and white cable. 

DVI

DVI stands for Digital Video Interface, and these cables are known for providing crystal-clear video quality for HD videos or other display screens. However, as mentioned above, the HDMI cables are taking place of these cables. 

FireWire

FireWire connections support and enhance faster speeds and are usually meant for cameras and other video recording devices. These cables come in three different types, including 4-pin, 9-pin, and 6-pin, offering different kinds of speed and thus used for different devices. 

HDMI or High Definition Multimedia Interface

It must be obvious so far that the HDMI cables are the most commonly used cables for transferring various audio and video signals and are also compatible with 4K and 3D videos.  

Types of HDMI Cables. These are the various types of HDMI cables:

Standard HDMI Cable

These are used for HDTV broadcast, cable as well as satellite TV.

Standard Automotive HDMI Cable

In addition to having the same usage as that of a standard HDMI cable, this can also be used for in-car DVD players or other types of car video display devices. It comes with extra shielding for reducing any type of interference. 

High-Speed Automotive HDMI Cable

This HDMI type can deal with 1080p and 4K video resolutions. It is also compatible with 3D.

Premium High-Speed HDMI Cable

It supports a bandwidth of 18 Gbps and is capable of handling 4K resolution video.

Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable 

This HDMI cable has all the aforementioned uses and capabilities. Besides, it also supports 8K video and resolutions as high as 10k. 

Ethernet Cables 

Another popularly known cable is the Ethernet cable that is mainly used for connecting your laptop or computer to a modem or router, etc. to provide internet connectivity of different speeds. 

Phone Cable

As evident by the name, the phone cable is a cable mainly used for providing a telephonic connection for your home phone. 

Power Cord

Power cords are cables that come in different sizes and styles. They are intended to supply electric power to the devices. 

Mini-DIN

A mini-DIN or S-Video, also known as Super-Video or Separate Video is used for transferring information between the TV box and other devices for creating a high-quality video output. 

Buying Tips

Here are some noteworthy tips to follow when buying various cable types for your TV, internet, and/or phone:

Always purchase cables with the right connector for the devices. 

Make sure you get the right cable length that is required. Avoid buying a very long or short cable. It is better to determine the cable length you will be needing beforehand. 

When buying online, be sure to buy the cable from a well-reputed online seller with good reviews.

Wrapping Up

The aforementioned information regarding the various cable types can be very helpful, especially if you want to self-install your TV, internet, and phone service to avoid any additional installation charges from your service provider.