What is the SCART connection?

The SCART connection is an older but still widely used interface that was developed in the 1980s as a standard for connecting TV sets, video recorders, DVD players and other entertainment devices.

It transmits both analogue audio and video signals between devices. Even though modern digital connections such as HDMI are increasingly gaining the upper hand today, SCART connections can still be found in many households, especially on older devices such as satellite receivers, older televisions and DVD players.

What does a SCART plug look like?

The SCART connector is easy to recognise: It has 20 pins arranged in a flat plug and has a characteristic notch that helps to ensure it is only plugged in in the right direction. This special shape prevents the plug from being connected incorrectly, which could lead to signal problems.

Quality and cable lengths

The quality of signal transmission via SCART cable depends heavily on two factors: the cable quality and the cable length. Higher-quality cables ensure better picture and sound quality as they transmit signals more efficiently. However, there is also a limitation with SCART: the longer the cable, the greater the risk of signal loss. For distances over 5 metres, signal transmission becomes increasingly poorer, which can lead to noise or image distortion. If possible, you should therefore opt for shorter cables or switch to modern alternatives such as HDMI, which are less susceptible to signal loss.

Why is SCART still used today?

Although SCART has now been replaced by digital connections such as HDMI, there are still many reasons why this connection is still in use:

Compatibility with older devices: Many older devices, such as DVD players or satellite receivers, still have a SCART connection, which is necessary for connection to older televisions or monitors.
Easy to use: The SCART connection is easy to use and allows multiple devices to be connected without the need for additional adapters.

InLine Scart products

The SCART connection has played an important role in the past and is still useful, especially if you want to connect older devices. InLine offers cables and adapters so that you can continue to operate older devices:

InLine® Scart Video Cable male / male

20pin scart plug to 20pin scart plug
Fully pinning

InLine® Scart Adapter Scart male / 3x RCA and S-VHS video in / out

Scart adaptor, InLine®, Scart M to 3x RCA and S-VHS video (in/out)

20pin scart plug (in/out switchable) to 4pin mini DIN jack s-video and three RCA jacks (audio R, audio L and video)
usable on both sides

Item no.: 89953

InLine® Scart Video Cable male / male

20pin scart plug to 20pin scart plug
Fully pinning