a method and apparatus for switching input terminals based on device capability are disclosed . the method supplies a digital signal and an analog signal to a device . the method includes examination of whether or not a device is receiving a digital signal in an eligible format . the method also selects an analog input terminal to receive an analog signal unless the digital signal is being provided in the eligible format . the apparatus includes a digital input terminal to receive a digital signal , an analog input terminal to receive an analog signal , an ieee1394 interface coupled with the digital input terminal , a hd decoder coupled with the ieee1394 interface , a memory and a selector which selects the digital input terminal if the digital signal is in an eligible format for the device . the apparatus otherwise selects the analog input terminal . the selector may include a controller for examining whether or not the decoder is capable of decoding the digital signal , and a switch controlled by the controller so as to select the digital input terminal if the decoder is capable of decoding the digital signal , otherwise to select the analog input terminal .