Abstract: A method and apparatus for selecting a quantizer scale for each macroblock to maintain the overall quality of the video image while optimizing the coding rate. A quantizer scale is selected for each macroblock such that target bit rate for the picture is achieved while an optimal quantization scale ratio is maintained for successive macroblocks to produce a uniform visual quality over the entire picture. One embodiment applies the method to the frame level while another embodiment applies the method in conjunction with a wavelet transform.

Abstract: High magnesium-content magnesium aluminosilicate glasses are used to form green tape compositions that are fired stepwise, i.e., first to about 500.degree. C. to remove organic materials, then to a temperature 10-30.degree. C. above the glass transition temperature for a time sufficient to nucleate the glass, and finally to a higher temperature near but below the softening temperature to complete crystallization of the glass. The resultant glass-ceramic may include substantial amounts of the forsterite crystalline phase. Multilayer ceramic printed circuit boards are made that are useful for high frequency, microwave applications. The fired high magnesium oxide content glasses have low dielectric constant and low dissipation loss factors, and they have a thermal coefficient of expansion that is compatible with metal or ceramic support substrates that impart mechanical strength to the printed circuit boards and that are thermally conductive. The boards are compatible with gallium arsenide devices.