Typical HD-DVD Player Rear Panel Connections

Starting from left to right, are the analog audio outputs. On this HD-DVD Player, there are both Analog Stereo Outputs and Analog 5.1 Channel Outputs. If you have an AV receiver without a Dolby Digital or DTS decoder, you can use the analog stereo outputs. However, if your AV receiver is equipped with 5.1 channel analog inputs, you should use the 5.1 channel analog outputs of the HD-DVD. The HD-DVD player has its own built-in Dolby Digital and DTS decoders, if your AV receiver does not have them.

To the right of the analog audio outputs are the Digital Optical and Digital Coaxial Audio Outputs. If you have an AV receiver with digital optical or digital coaxial audio inputs, use these connections to access surround sound.

Move still further right, there are four types of video output connections offered: First is the HDMI output, next is the Component Video output. The component video output consists of Green, Blue, and Red connectors. Then, moving further right, the yellow connection is the Composite, or standard analog video output. Just below the composite video output is the S-Video output. These connectors plug into the same type of connectors on a TV, Video Projector, or AV receiver.

It must also be noted that the HD-DVD player may have a LAN and/or RS-232 connection for access to internet and network control functions. On this HD-DVD player, the RS-232 connection is located above the Component Video Connections, and the LAN connection is located above the S-Video and Composite Video Connection.

Also, note the large fan on the back panel. It is important that you allow for enough space above, below, and behind the HD-DVD player to allow the air to circulate, and for the fan to cool the the processor inside the cabinet.

On the far right of the rear panel is the AC Power Connection.

Lastly, on the Front Panel (not pictured) are two USB ports for connection of additional devices, such as video game controllers.

For more information on HD-DVD Players, check out my reference article: Before You Buy a Blu-Ray Disc or HD-DVD Player and my Top Picks for Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD Players.