Joint rate control with look-ahead for multi-program video coding

Abstract

In this paper a joint rate control algorithm for multi-program video compression system using MPEG-2 compatible video encoders, is presented. It is based on a look-ahead approach and it distributes the channel bandwidth dynamically among the encoders according to the relative complexities of the programs using picture and coding statistics. The proposed scheme allows, at start of encoding, adaptive distribution of the channel bandwidth among the programs based on their relative scene contents. It also assures quick reaction for scene changes, while a feedback approach requires an unavoidable delay. Experimental results show that the presented look-ahead approach results in improved picture quality in comparison to the feedback approach, which is a special case of the proposed algorithm.