The PC/video connection

The personal computer (PC) is an integral part of our life. Television (TV) and PCs have a common origin in electronic technology. With respect to pictures and sound, TVs are an analog technology; PCs are digital. The analog video signal can be converted to digital information for storage in the computer memory or displayed on the computer monitor. An example of advancing technology is the video conferencing industry (remote conferencing). It is becoming an alternative to expensive and time-consuming air travel. The video and audio are transmitted using complex equipment, and expensive and relatively scarce high bandwidth satellite channels. Combined, video and computing can take technology even further, for instance into the operating room. Video can be used with a computer for teleconferencing the surgery. This would be especially beneficial in the area such as laparoscopy. A video used with the computer provides two distinct advantages. The ability to interact with a remote viewer (e.g. teleconferencing an operation), and the improved instructional value. We consider the state-of-the-art technology that video and computing can create and use. To do this, each aspect of each technology is reviewed.