audiovisual tech Interview Questions and Answers
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What is the difference between HDMI and DisplayPort?
- Answer: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) and DisplayPort are both digital display interfaces, but they have key differences. HDMI is widely used for consumer electronics, carrying video and audio signals over a single cable. DisplayPort is primarily used for computers and professional applications, offering higher bandwidth and supporting features like multi-stream transport (MST) for multiple displays from a single port. DisplayPort also generally supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI, particularly at higher color depths.
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Explain the concept of aspect ratio.
- Answer: Aspect ratio refers to the proportional relationship between the width and height of an image or video. It's expressed as a ratio, such as 16:9 (widescreen) or 4:3 (standard definition). Maintaining the correct aspect ratio is crucial for preventing distortion or letterboxing/pillarboxing when displaying the content.
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What is a codec?
- Answer: A codec (coder-decoder) is a device or computer program that compresses and decompresses digital data, such as audio and video. Examples include MP3 (audio), H.264 (video), and AAC (audio). Codecs are essential for reducing file sizes and improving data transmission efficiency.
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Describe different types of microphones and their applications.
- Answer: Several microphone types exist, each suited for different purposes. Dynamic microphones are robust and handle high sound pressure levels, ideal for live sound reinforcement. Condenser microphones are more sensitive and capture finer details, often used in recording studios. Lapel microphones are small and clip-on, perfect for interviews or presentations. Shotgun microphones are directional and ideal for picking up sound from a distance, often used in filmmaking. Boundary microphones are flat and designed for tabletop use.
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What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced audio cables?
- Answer: Balanced cables use three conductors (two signals and one ground) to reduce noise and interference, particularly over long distances. Unbalanced cables use two conductors (signal and ground), making them more susceptible to noise. Balanced cables are preferred for professional audio applications.
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Explain the concept of audio mixing.
- Answer: Audio mixing involves combining multiple audio sources (microphones, instruments, sound effects) to create a cohesive and balanced final mix. This involves adjusting levels, equalization (EQ), compression, and other effects to achieve the desired sound. A mixing console is typically used to facilitate this process.
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What is a mixer and what are its functions?
- Answer: A mixer is a device used to combine multiple audio signals, adjust their levels, and apply effects. Functions include input selection, gain control, equalization, panning (stereo positioning), aux sends (for effects or monitoring), and output routing.
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What is a video switcher?
- Answer: A video switcher, or production switcher, is a device used to select and transition between different video sources during a live broadcast or video production. It allows for seamless transitions between cameras, graphics, and other video inputs.
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Explain the difference between progressive scan and interlaced scan.
- Answer: Progressive scan displays all the lines of an image at once, providing a smoother, clearer picture. Interlaced scan displays the odd and even lines of an image separately, creating a flicker effect that is more noticeable at lower refresh rates. Progressive scan is preferred for modern displays.
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