A method for identifying format of a video signal including a raster-synchronizing signal having a timing signal spanning a synch interval and a synch-follower signal level adjacent the synch interval, and a color-related signal, includes the steps: (a) ascertaining (1) first signal level of the color-related signal during the synch interval; (2) synch difference between level of the raster-synchronizing signal during the synch interval and the synch-follower level; and (3) peak excursion for the color-related signal; (b) in any order: (1) if first signal level is greater than a first value, set a first factor at one, else zero; (2) if synch difference is greater than a second value, set a second factor at one, else zero; and (3) if peak excursion is greater than a third value, set a third factor at zero, else one; and (c) employing the factors to identify the format according to predetermined relationships.