Audio Systems: interconnects basics, HDMI, component cable

Question
Hi Garry,

I am quite new to HiFi components. I am currently researching Hifi components and would like to know the common wires or types of wires used to connect different components.

I have seen names like coaxial, optical, XLR etc...I want to what connects to what...I hope you got what i wanted to know.

Regards
C

Answer
Garry,
 You must be real new to hi-fi.  Mostly because that term hasn't been used since the late 80's, just messing w/you.  Here's a quick run down of your common interconnect.

HDMI - Carries your video and audio signal on one wire,a digital uncompressed standard

Component - Uses rca ends and carries a video signal, uses 3 cables for red, blue, and green

Composite - Uses rca ends and carries a video signal over one wire

Digital audio Optical cable - Carries audio signal for surround sound, uses light to transmit data, does not use copper like previously mentioned cables, uses glass or/and plastic cores.

Digital audio coaxial cable - Uses rca ends and carries audio signal for surround sound