Why NES Composite Video Output Appears Wobbly

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) outputs video through a composite signal. Many users notice that the picture often looks

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) outputs video through a composite signal. Many users notice that the picture often looks unstable or “wobbly.” The wobble becomes evident on displays that show the NES output. It is linked to inconsistencies in the video signal’s timing. Small timing irregularities can cause the image to drift. Such drift disrupts the synchronization of the composite video. The result is a picture that appears to move or flicker. Identifying the cause aids hobbyists in improving NES video stability.