Component standards can run at resolutions up to 1080i and are therefore close to the cutting edge of analogue video transmission. The standard is originally from the US and corresponds to the European RGB video standard used in Scart cables, but should not be confused with it. Component signal is a compressed RGB signal (with no visible loss) using only three conductors with the sync signal integrated, whereas the RGB has separate sync.
The advantage to component video with respect to SCART is that it supports HDTV formats in which the SCART is limited to the regular 720x576/480 resolution. The downside is that audio signals cannot be transmitted through these cables and that control signals, such as AV channel switching and 4:3/16:9 switching on the TV must be done manually. Component supports resolutions up to 1080i, if the equipment permits it.
Component and RGB video transfers stand out by giving a visibly more colourful and calm image with less noise than both Composite and S-Video transfers, and are recommended if possible.