EIAJ-8 (also known as the Honda connector or 8-pin rectangular video connector) is a rectangular 8-pin connector standardized by the Electronic Industries Association of Japan (EIAJ). It was commonly used on Japanese monitors, televisions, and VTRs from the 1970s through the 1990s for carrying video and audio signals.
Overview
The EIAJ-8 connector features a distinctive rectangular housing with 8 pins arranged in two rows of four. Unlike round DIN connectors, the rectangular shape provides a more secure connection and prevents accidental disconnection.
The connector was originally developed by Honda Electric for use in video equipment, hence the alternative name "Honda connector." It was later adopted as an EIAJ standard and became common on:
- Professional and consumer monitors (Sony, NEC, Sharp)
- Video tape recorders (VTRs)
- Computers with TTL-level digital RGB output
Signal Types
The EIAJ-8 connector can carry different signal types depending on the application:
- Digital RGB - TTL-level RGB with separate H-sync and V-sync (8 or 16 colors)
- Analog video - Composite video with stereo audio (on VTR equipment)
Common Pinouts
Digital RGB (Monitor Input)
As used on monitors like the Sony Profeel Pro series:
| Pin | Signal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Not connected |
| 2 | Red input (TTL) |
| 3 | Green input (TTL) |
| 4 | Blue input (TTL) |
| 5 | Ground |
| 6 | Ground |
| 7 | H-sync input (TTL, active low) |
| 8 | V-sync input (TTL, active low) |
Sourcing
Original EIAJ-8 connectors are difficult to find. Sony part numbers include:
- 1-506-161-00 - Male 8-pin plug
- 1-509-113-00 - Female 8-pin socket
Hirose 1300/1600 series connectors may be compatible, though pin sizes can vary.
See Also
- DIN-8 - Round 8-pin DIN connector (different physical form)
- Digital RGB - TTL-level digital RGB signal format
- JP21 - Japanese 21-pin analog RGB connector
References
- Honda Video Connectors - Technical reference
- Digital RGB connector - MSX Wiki
