Connecting a console used to seem so simple, but nowadays it can quickly become a real headache. Video and audio inputs and outputs have multiplied over the years and, despite well-known standards, can make certain screens incompatible with our machines.

Many gamers now use upscalers such as Retrotink 4K or OSSC, which allow images from our old consoles to be transmitted via HDMI to modern screens. Nevertheless, purists will always prefer an unprocessed source to obtain a ‘pure’ image.

The main problem in this case is finding a compatible combination of video inputs and outputs. If you dig a little deeper, you'll quickly realise that consoles and screens (CRT and PC) have exploited numerous formats: SCART, Composite/S-Video RCA, VGA, YUV...

What's more, depending on the manufacturer, model, generation or region, input and output types vary. So you end up with a multitude of non-standardised possibilities, which become even more complex when you have several consoles or several screens.

Of course, there are adapters on the market that often do the job, but Scalable Video Switch has taken the concept a step further by offering a fully customisable and scalable analogue video switching solution.

Prototype

In its most advanced (and therefore most expensive) configuration, this adapter can accommodate up to 32 input modules and 6 output modules, in any combination of Peritel, Component, VGA and Composite/S-Video. Far too many for standard use by the average retrogaming gamer, but this solution means you can adapt the components to suit your needs.

To get started, you'll need to buy the control module ($40) and the remote control ($10). You can then add the various input/output modules, available for between $25 and $35, which you clip together to form a single block tailored to your needs.

If you've been following the Recalbox project, you probably know that an in-house solution exists for equipping your Raspberry Pi4 with a Peritel and VGA output: the RGB Dual. This essential accessory for playing on your CRT screens is plug and play. The solution remains compatible with Pi5, subject to specific installation to ensure sound compatibility (as Fabrice explains here).

Finally, if you'd like to know more about analogue signals, Kid has a comprehensive and very accessible article that you can find on this page.