Copyright 1999 Wayne E. Bretl and Mark Fimoff. Posted on www.bretl.com January 15, 2000

This tutorial Covers both video compression and data transport aspects of MPEG 2, and also particular constraints and extensions related to the US DTV standards, both FCC  mandated and ATSC voluntary.

Contents:

Introduction and Contents (this page)

Authors' Copyright and Disclaimer

Version

Video Compression Basics

Background

Prediction

• Example: Coding based on clustering of pixel values

• Simple Differential Predictive Coding

• Frame-Differential Coding

• Motion Compensated Prediction

• Unpredictable Information

Transform Coding

Lossy Coding

Masking

Variable Quantization

Run-Level Coding

Encoder Configuration

• Lossy Coding Requirements

• Example - one-dimensional lossy system

MPEG 2 Video Compression

Introduction to MPEG 2 Video Compression

MPEG Coder/Decoder Diagram

Profiles and Levels

Frames, Fields, Pictures (I, P, B)

I P B Picture Reordering

Pixel Positioning

Compression tools

• MPEG 2 Quantization

• MPEG 2 Prediction

• Discrete Cosine Transform

• Huffman/Run-Level Coding

• Zig-Zag Scanning Patterns

MPEG 2 Video Data Structures

• Block

• Macroblock

• Field DCT Coding and Frame DCT Coding

• Slice

• Picture

• Group of Pictures (GOP)

• Sequence

• PES Packets and Elementary Streams

MPEG 2 Data Transport

Transport Packets

Transport Packet Diagram

Transport Header

Transport Adaptation Field

Transport Payload

Timing and Buffer Control

Timing Model

Timing Model Diagram

PCR - Program Clock Reference

STC - System Time Clock

SCR - System Clock Reference

PTS - Presentation Time Stamp

DTS - Decode Time Stamp

Multiplexed Programs

VBV - Video Buffering Verifier

Buffer Synchronization and Startup

• Constant Bit Rate Operation

• Variable Bit Rate Operation

• Startup

Low Delay Mode

Decoder STC Synchronization

• Synchronization Loop Model

• Decoder Buffer Requirements

• Loop Characteristics

MPEG Program Specific Information (PSI)

ATSC Program and System Information Protocol (PSIP)

ATSC Doc A/53 Constraints on MPEG

Annex A - Video Constraints

Annex B - Audio System

Annex C - Multiplex and Transport

Annex D - RF/Transmission System

Standards

ATSC Standards

MPEG Standards

Glossary