vektorscope

A vectorscope, sometimes referred to as a vektorscope in some contexts, is an instrument used in video production to visualize the chrominance components of a video signal. It represents color information on a circular or polar display, allowing technicians to assess hue and saturation independently from brightness.

On a vectorscope, each color present in the signal is depicted as a vector. The angle of the vector corresponds to hue, while the vector’s length from the center represents saturation. The display typically includes reference color targets for common standards, such as the primary and secondary colors, providing a guide for accurate color reproduction and easier comparison against broadcast specifications.

The scope accepts multiple input formats, including composite, component, S-Video, and SDI, and supports various color spaces used in analog and digital video. Modern scopes align readings to standards like Rec. 601 for SD, Rec. 709 for HD, and Rec. 2020 for Ultra High Definition, with some models also accommodating HDR workflows and newer color spaces.

In practice, operators use a vectorscope during calibration and color grading to ensure skin tones look natural, identify unwanted color casts, and match colors across cameras and displays. It is often used in conjunction with a waveform monitor and is a staple tool in broadcast facilities, post-production suites, and professional video production.

Historically, the vectorscope emerged as a specialized device for chrominance analysis to support color accuracy and standard compliance. While software tools can emulate vector displays, dedicated hardware vectorscopes remain common for real-time monitoring and reliable color verification.