scanconverter

A scanconverter is a type of signal processing hardware or software that converts a video signal from one scanning format to another. This is often necessary when a source device outputs a video signal in a format that is incompatible with the display device or the intended viewing environment. For example, a computer graphics card might output a high-resolution progressive scan signal, while a television set might be designed to accept a lower-resolution interlaced signal. A scanconverter would bridge this gap by changing the resolution and/or the scanning method.

The primary function of a scanconverter is to change the number of lines and pixels per line in a video signal, as well as to alter the way the image is displayed over time. This can involve upscaling or downscaling the image resolution, converting between interlaced and progressive scan formats, or adjusting the frame rate. Interlacing, where each frame is split into two fields displayed sequentially, is a method used to reduce bandwidth requirements and perceived flicker. Progressive scan displays all lines of each frame in a single pass. Scanconverters are crucial in video production, broadcasting, and home theater setups to ensure compatibility between various video sources and displays. They can also be used to adapt signals for specific transmission mediums or storage formats.