The existence of many different audio and video standards necessitates the definition of hardware interfaces, which define the physical characteristics of the connections between electrical equipment. This includes the types and numbers of wires required along with the strength and frequency of the signal. It also includes the physical design of the plugs and sockets.

An interface may define a connector that is used only by that interface (e.g., DVI) or may define a connector that is also used by another interface; for example, RCA connectors are defined both by the composite video and component video interfaces.

Audio connectors and video connectors are electrical connectors (or optical connectors) for carrying audio signal and video signal, of either analog or digital format. Analog A/V connectors often use shielded cables to inhibit radio frequency interference (RFI) and noise.

Since both analog and digital signals are used with some styles of connectors, knowledge of the interface used is necessary for a successful transfer of signals. Some interface types use only a distinctive connector or family of connectors, to ensure compatability. Especially with analog interfaces, physically interchangable connectors may not carry compatible signals.

Some of these connectors, and other types of connectors, are also used at radio frequency (RF) to connect a radio or television receiver to an antenna or to a cable system; RF connector applications are not further described here.

Combined audio/video interfacesSome connectors can carry both audio and video signals simultaneously:

Digital Media Port a connector proposed by Sony on its audio/video products

Unified Display Interface (UDI)

SCART, now the most common in Europe

Other composite connectors that carry video, audio, power, and USB:

ADC, now-defunct Apple Display Connector

Apple 30-pin dock connector, a docking cradle for Apple iPod, iPhone and iPad.