NTSC 4.43

NTSC 4.43 is a hybrid video format that uses NTSC color encoding (525/60 timing) but with a PAL-style 4.43 MHz color subcarrier instead of the standard 3.58 MHz.

Why it exists

NTSC 4.43 was created as a compatibility hack to allow PAL-region equipment to display NTSC video content (e.g., playing NTSC VHS tapes on European TVs). The TV can sync to the 525/60 timing and decode color using its existing PAL 4.43 MHz decoder circuitry.

Important notes

• A device supporting NTSC 4.43 does not necessarily support standard NTSC (3.58)
• A device may display NTSC 3.58 content in black-and-white while showing NTSC 4.43 in color
• Only catalog a CRT as supporting "NTSC 4.43" when this is explicitly confirmed

Technical details

• Timing: 525 lines / 60 Hz (same as NTSC)
• Color subcarrier: 4.433618 MHz (same as PAL)
• Color encoding: NTSC-style