TS IEC 60050-806

TS IEC 60050-806 is an electrotechnical vocabulary standard that organises terms and definitions used in the recording and reproduction of audio and video. It brings core concepts of recording and playback technologies into a shared technical language so that device, function and process names are understood consistently across disciplines.

Why audio and video terminology are treated separately

Although audio and video are often used together, they involve different technical concepts in signal type, transmission format, storage structure and reproduction chain. Audio terminology focuses on the electrical or digital representation of an acoustic signal, while video terminology addresses the capture, storage and replay of visual information, whether moving or still. This distinction helps reduce terminological ambiguity in broadcasting, consumer electronics, recording systems and multimedia applications.

What conceptual framework this chapter provides

• Naming of the main stages in the recording and reproduction chain
• Common technical concepts related to audio/video processing, storage and playback
• Consistent identification of the same technology across different products and systems
• Usage aligned with international electrotechnical vocabulary practice

From a general technical standpoint, a vocabulary standard does not prescribe a test method or performance threshold; it clarifies the meaning of terms. For that reason, TS IEC 60050-806 helps users apply the same name to the same concept in technical documents, catalogues, training materials and engineering communication. It provides a reference terminology framework for understanding audio and video recording and reproduction technologies.