World Video Formats
What VHS tape will work in my Video recorder?
Throughout the world there are different video standards. There are 3 main types NTSC, PAL and SECAM. This means that a tape which is for the USA (NTSC) will not normally work in a UK (PAL) video recorder nor a French (SECAM) one. The converse is also true although there are a few video recorders which will play more than one standard.
Using special equipment it is possible to convert one format into another. Most of Quartz Productions videos can be supplied in any world format.
NTSC is the format used in North America, Japan and some parts of South America.
PAL is used throughout Western Europe (except France) and typically in areas which were formally part of the British Commonwealth.
SECAM is used in France, former areas of French influence and in some Arab countries.
NTSC |
PAL |
SECAM |
MESECAM |
USA, Canada, |
UK |
France |
Saudi Arabia |
Taiwan, Korea |
New Zealand |
Russia | Iran |
Philippines |
Australia | Eastern Europe | Iraq |
West Indies |
Eire | North Africa | Cyprus |
Japan |
Western Europe | Ex French Colonies | Greece |
Central America |
Most Commonwealth Countries |
Former Soviet Republics |
Egypt |
| Morocco |
When placing an order, please make sure you state which video format you require.
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