Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching video signals from input lines to output lines. A control device selectively sets a blackout start time and a blackout stop time. A first comparator compares the blackout start time with actual time and a second comparator compares the blackout stop time with actual time. A switch is provided for connecting the input lines to output lines and for disconnecting the input lines from the output lines. The switch is responsive to the first comparator to disconnect all input lines from all output lines when the actual time equals the blackout start time. The switch is also responsive to the second comparator to reconnect the input lines to the output lines when the actual time equals the blackout stop time.