We at TMTV have put together the following chart listing countries and their corresponding color TV standards and DVD regions. We have tried to be as accurate as possible, despite contradicting information found in books and manuals, and the fact that there are new countries, and some have changed their names. Other countries have an “official” TV standard, but new cable companies are broadcasting in a different system, or programs are received from beyond their borders, and there is some confusion about which is the system being used locally. We will appreciate any information you can provide to help us refine and correct the chart.
NTSC: National Television System Committee. Developed in the U.S., it was the world’s first color TV system. Broadcast started in 1954.
PAL:Phase Alternation Line. Developed in Germany. Based in the NTSC system, it was modified to avoid color distortion. Broadcast started in 1967.
SECAM: Séquentiel Couleur Avec Mémoire. Developed in France. Broadcast started in 1967.