Composite is the RCA plug (usually a yellow color).

S-Video - "the funny connector" - It splits out the video signal differently - I used to know how - but can't remember now.

Component - 3 different RCA cables - splits the video out one step further than S-Video - and yes - you need all 3 for it to work correctly.

The difference between the S-Video and component video I believe is this:
S-Video splits out the color information seperately, where component also splits out the luminance and chromonance (sp?). It is supposed to have better color, etc. I think I read somewhere that it is like taking a black and white photo, and the color information for that photo seperately, and rebuilding the picture.

I personally always use S-Video (video switching convenience) as I really don't find the difference enough to worry about.

Bryan