Abstract: A method and an apparatus for encoding an image signal. The apparatus includes an acquisition module disposed to receive the image signal. A first processor is coupled to the acquisition module. At least one encoder processor is coupled to the first processor. The at least one encoder processor produces an encoded image signal under control of the first processor. The method includes the steps of converting an input image signal into a predetermined digital format and transferring the digital format image signal to at least one encoder processor. The method further includes the step of applying, at the at least one encoder processor, a hierarchical vector quantization compression algorithm to the digitized image signal. At the next step, a resultant encoded bit stream generated by the application of the algorithm is collected. The method and apparatus of the present invention may be used in conjunction with an ordinary modem to transmit and/or receive audio, video sequences or still images.

Abstract: A switcher with depth processing includes a depth processor module. External depth data, or internally generated depth data, are input to the depth processor to generate a priority signal for combining key video signals as layers between a background and a foreground video signal. Further a composite depth signal is generated for the combined key video signals for subsequent processing so that additional key video layers may be intersected and intertwined with the key video layers in the combined video signals.