Video coding using the MPEG-2 compression standard

The second phase of the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG-2) is ongoing and so far has resulted in completion of algorithmic tools for video coding with this standard. This standard is generic in nature and is organized around the concept of profiles and levels to address a wide range of applications and bit-rates. It not only supports coding of interlaced and progressive format video as a single layer, but also supports scalable video coding. The MPEG-2 standard, like the MPEG-1 standard, specifies a syntax for the bitstream and the semantics of the decoding process; encoders can be designed for best tradeoff of performance versus complexity, based on the application. We describe the various tools available in the MPEG-2 standard and discuss the potential of each tool for improving coding performance or enabling new applications.