The present invention involves inserting a sequence of computer-like commands into a video signal stream (230) and which contain data processing instructions (401; 457; 500) and video test patterns (407; 452) in order to automate the integration, configuration, set up, adjustment, calibration and control of the components (131; 132; 133) in a video system, such as an HDTV, a studio video camera, or Telecine conversion of filmed content. The command source can be any video hardware signal source or any video program content, such as a DVD being played in a DVD player, a game console, game software, a Set Top Box or broadcast video.