Hardware Connections:
VGA - Video Graphics Array
VGA is a video connection that is normally used with videos and monitors.
Line IN
Line IN is an audio connection that is used in an amplifier.
Line OUT
Line OUT is an audio connection that is used to send audio.
Firewire
Firewire is a method of transferring information between digital devices, especially audio and video equipment.
SD/Media Card Slot
Sd/Media Card Slot are for reading external memory cards on cameras, phones etc. It gets connected to the computer to be able to access the data.
SCART
SCART is a 21-pin connector for connecting audio-visual (AV) equipment together (normally televisions and speakers).
Optical
An optical cable is an audio cable. The key advantage of this cable is that it is immune from interference. This is because the electrical signal is converted to a light signal that passes along reflective tube within the cable.
HDMI
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a compact audio/video interface for transferring uncompressed digital audio/video data from an HDMI-compliant device to a compatible digital audio device, computer monitor, video projector, or digital television.
USB
Universal serial bus, a connection technology for attaching peripheral devices to a computer, providing fast data exchange.
Infrared
An infrared port is a port on an electronic device that sends and receives information viainfrared light. Such ports were once widely used on wireless devices to enable rapid and easy communication with networked devices, base stations, and other equipment. They have been largely replaced by radio frequency (RF) technology because it is more powerful and flexible. Older systems may have infrared ports installed, and they can also be seen on devices like television remotes.
If a device has an infrared port, it is typically easy to identify. A small bubble or screen of transparent material covers the port, allowing it to transmit and receive data. When it is active, it may light up with visible light as well as infrared, to alert the user to the fact that it is in operation. The device should also have an options menu for the port, to allow the operator to change the settings, turn the port off, and troubleshoot, if necessary.
There are two main drawbacks to using an infrared port, both of which ultimately led to decisions to replace the technology with RF. The first is the line of sight restriction. The portwill only function when it is within the line of sight of the target device, as people may have noticed when attempting to change the channel from an odd angle just outside the range of the television's receiver. The second issue is the short range, which significantly limits functionality.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless technology for exchanging data over short distances. The chip can be plugged into computers, digital cameras and mobile phones. Find out more about Bluetooth in this short guide.
Bluetooth is a way of exchanging data wirelessly over short distances, and is an attempt to do away with your computer’s jungle of wiring.
Using a special radio frequency to transmit data, it creates a short range network. It is very secure and can connect up to eight devices (items of electronic equipment) at the same time. The chip can be plugged into items such as computers, digital cameras, mobile phones and faxes.
Bluetooth is particularly convenient in certain situations – for example, when transferring files from one mobile phone to another without cables. Sending music and photos between a PC and a mobile phone is another useful application.
Advantages of bluetooth is that you can transfer datas in an instant into other cellphones or laptop. Disadvantages is that your cellphone and laptop can be at risk of a virus which can also makes malfunctions in it.