A French standard connector used to connect audio-visual (AV) equipment together. It was widely used throughout Europe and other countries before the advent of HDMI. It’s also known as Péritel or Euroconnector.
The SCART connector can carry composite and RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) video signals as well as stereo audio signals and supports various television standards like PAL and SECAM. The benefit of SCART is that it can carry all these signals in one cable, simplifying the connection process. However, due to its analog nature, SCART cannot deliver high-definition video quality, which limits its use with modern devices that require high-resolution support.
SCART connectors were commonly found on standard-definition televisions, DVD players, VHS players, and early gaming consoles. The interface allows for bidirectional communication, enabling features like automatic source switching and aspect ratio control on compatible devices.
While digital interfaces in new products have largely replaced it, SCART connections are still prevalent in the used and vintage equipment market, where enthusiasts seek to connect older technology with the appropriate interface for its era.
As HDMI and other digital interfaces have become the standard in the marketing of electronics, devices with SCART compatibility are often marketed as having legacy support, appealing to users with older AV equipment or those who require connections for non-digital devices.