Implementing rate-distortion optimization on a resource-limited H.264 encoder

Abstract

This thesis models the rate-distortion characteristics of an H.264 video compression encoder to improve its mode decision performance. First, it provides a background to the fundamentals of video compression. Then it describes the problem of estimating rate and distortion of a macroblock given limited computational resources. It derives the macroblock rate and distortion as a function of the residual SAD and H.264 quantization parameter QP. From the resulting equations, this thesis implements and verifies rate-distortion optimization on a resource-limited H.264 encoder. Finally, it explores other avenues of improvement.