SPDIF
The SPDIF specification defines a Data Link Layer protocol and choice of Physical Layer specifications for carrying digital audio signals between devices and stereo components. Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format or Sony Philips Digital Interface is what SPDIF stands for. The two companies (Sony and Philips) are the primary designers of the SPDIF format. Today, it is more part of the larger collection of standards IEC 60958 (which often times is referred to as AES/EBU), where it is known as IFC 958 type 2. SPDIF is basically a minor modification of the original AES/EBU standard for consumer use, providing small differences in the protocol and requiring less costly hardware.
SPDIF was developed from as standard used in the professional audio field, known as AES/EBU which is commonly used to interconnect professional audio equipment. SPDIF remained identical at the protocol level, but changed the physical connectors from XLR to either a coaxial cable (with RCA jacks) or optical fiber cable. Both of these are cheaper and are more user-friendly. The cable was also changed from a 110 balanced twisted pair to the more common and compatible 75 coaxial cable. It also uses RCA jacks instead of the BNC connector which is common in the commercial applications. So in all reality, the SPDIF is basically a consumer version of the AES/EBU format.
The main use of the SPDIF interface is to carry compressed digital audio as defined by the standard IEC 61937. This mode is used to connect the output of a DVD player to a home theater receiver that supports Dolby Digital or DTS surround sound. There are other uses as well. Another use for the SPDIF is to carry uncompressed digital audio from a CD player to a receiver. This specification also allows for the coupling personal computer digital sound if tagged teamed up with via optical or coax to Dolby or DTS capable receivers.
It should be noted that there are no differences in the signals transmitted over the optical or coaxial SPDIF connectors. Both of these carry exactly the same information. When trying to decide between which one to use, the main decision rests on the availability of the appropriate connectors on the chosen equipment. Connections longer than six meters, or those requiring tight bends should use a coaxial cable, since the high light signal cables are not susceptible to group loops and RF interference like coaxial cables.
So there you have it, some great information on SPDIF; Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format or Sony Philips Digital Interface (They are all the same thing.) SPDIF are great cables that are highly used in today’s technological world. They were specifically designed by two of the leading electronic companies Sony and Philips so you know they are the best.
For more information on SPDIF read What is SPDIF?
