component video cable? same as RCA?

[gychang]

I am getting ready to setup my HDTV with Cox, but the cable box only comes with component video hookup (no HDMI).

Can I just use two regular RCA connections (just use the 3 wires)?

thanks,

gychang

[Speedskater]

Doing it that way won't break anything. But, long term you should get a real component cable. For best picture all 3 conductors should be from the same reel of 75 ohm cable and all 3 should be exactly the same length.

[gychang]

thanks, Kevin.

sounds like 2 RCA cable sets should work out for now.

gychang

[lowlow007]

The best way to make a cable himself is 1 meter of coax antenna cable (75 ohms) and two rca cable gold silver platted or else ...
it's THE best , and others are esoteric and expensive for nothing...

[Speedskater]

If you DIY a component video cable:
a) Use 75 ohm co-ax, probably RG-6, single shield not quad shield with an all copper center wire. (quad shield is for higher RF frequencies)
b) All cable should come from the same reel.
c) The 3 cables should be the exact same length. (I don't know the tolerance, maybe less than one inch)

[OzMikeH]

I just use mid-priced commercial pre-made cables. About $12 for the triple.
I'm nearsighted so video quality isnt important to me. I doubt theres a noticeable (if any) difference between a "good enough" cable and a high end cable.
These cables make good audio interconnects too. just peel off one cable from the triple.