Amit Shoham and Jeff Bier
Berkeley Design Technology

Video compression algorithms ("codecs") manipulate video signals to dramatically reduce the storage and bandwidth required while maximizing perceived video quality. Understanding the operation of video codecs is essential for developers of embedded systems, processors, and tools targeting video applications. For example, understanding video codecs' processing and memory demands is key to processor selection and software optimization.

In this paper, we explore the operation and characteristics of video codecs. We explain basic video compression algorithms, including still-image compression, motion estimation, artifact reduction, and color conversion. We discuss the demands codecs make on processors and the consequences of these demands.