Advanced Video Coding (AVC), also known as H.264 or MPEG-4 AVC, is a standard for video coding that is widely used for efficient video transmission and storage. This technology is crucial for many applications such as high-definition television broadcasting, video conferencing, mobile services, internet video streaming, and HD video storage.
The standard was created by the ITU-T Video Coding Experts Group (VCEG) and the ISO/IEC Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) to ensure cooperation among manufacturers. AVC was first published in 2003 and defines a syntax for video encoding and decoding, but it does not specify algorithms for video encoding. The responsibility of encoding algorithms is left to the manufacturers.
AVC is based on earlier standards but offers high-quality video at lower bit rates. This technology is backed by patents owned by various parties, with most patents managed by MPEG LA. However, end-users can use AVC for streaming online video for free.
Which Streaming Protocols Work with H.264?
Almost all streaming protocols in use today are compatible with H.264, including Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP), HTTP Live Streaming (HLS), HTTP Dynamic Streaming (HDS), and Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (MPEG-DASH). However, HLS only works with H.264. Some streaming protocols can use other compression standards.
Conclusion
Advanced Video Coding is essential for efficient video transmission and storage for various applications. Almost all streaming protocols work with H.264, making it a widely used standard for internet video streaming. Understanding AVC can help optimize video streaming and improve end-user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Advanced Video Coding?
Advanced Video Coding (AVC), also known as H.264 or MPEG-4 AVC, is a standard for video coding that enables efficient video transmission and storage.
Who created Advanced Video Coding?
Advanced Video Coding was jointly standardized by the ITU-T Video Coding Experts Group (VCEG) and the ISO/IEC Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) to facilitate cooperation among manufacturers.
What are the streaming protocols that work with H.264?
Most streaming protocols in use today are compatible with H.264, including Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP), HTTP Live Streaming (HLS), HTTP Dynamic Streaming (HDS), and Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (MPEG-DASH).
