Overview

Video technology research began almost as soon as television was invented, as it offered distinct advantages over standard film. However, technical problems slowed development until the 1950s when video machines revolutionized television broadcasting. The home market flourished in the 1970s, although there were many setbacks, and the incompatibility of different machines scared off some consumers. In the 1980s the VHS format dominated, and consumers took to video with abandon, using it in an unforeseen variety of ways.

Background

The idea of electronically recording video images is an old one. Indeed, the first patent for the storage of television signals on magnetic tape dates back to January 4, 1927. However, fundamental technical problems limited the quality of video technology. Research blossomed after World War II, and slowly the necessary advances in amplification, noise reduction, and recording materials were made. The...