Abstract: An input control unit collectively sends a plurality of pieces of variable length code data. A primary analysis processing unit processes a first piece of variable length code data, recognizes zero run information, group number information, and overhead bit information relating thereto, and outputs them to a frequency conversion unit. A continuous analysis processing unit processes one or more pieces of variable length code data subsequent to the first piece of variable length code data. In the case of variable length code data targeted for a predetermined process, the continuous analysis processing unit recognizes zero run information, group number information, and overhead bit information relating thereto, and output them to the frequency conversion unit. In the case of not the variable length code data targeted for the predetermined process, the continuous analysis processing unit discards this and subsequent pieces of data.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for calculating an expected access time associated with one of a plurality of disk drive commands employs one or more neural networks. A plurality of disk drive commands received from an external source are stored in a memory, typically in a queue. Using a neural network, an expected access time associated with each of the queued commands is determined. Determining the expected access time associated with each of the queued commands involves determining a time for performing a seek and settle operation for each of the queued commands and a latency time associated with each of the queued commands. The command indicated by the neural network as having a minimum expected access time relative to access times associated with other ones of the queued commands is identified for execution.

Abstract: Digital signals representing a video image are variable length encoded and decoded by representing a sequence of orthogonal transformation coefficients with respective group numbers that represent groups of values of zero run lengths or groups of values of effective AC coefficients within the sequence. Huffman code values are assigned for each effective AC coefficient or for each zero run length by referencing a set of Huffman coding tables in which the Huffman code values are stored according to the respective group number and its immediately preceding group number in the sequence. The most frequent group numbers are assigned the shortest length Huffman code values and the least frequent group numbers are assigned the greatest length Huffman code values.

Abstract: There is disclosed an image data communicating apparatus which has a floppy disc drive and can store communication image data onto a floppy disc. The apparatus has a clock circuit, a memory, and a comparator and calculates the elapsed time at which the floppy disc drive is not driven, and when the elapsed time has reached a preset period of time, the floppy disc drive is driven, thereby moving a contact point between the floppy disc and a read/write head.