Abstract: An array encoding system and method for use with high definition digital video data streams includes method and means for analyzing the incoming data stream, splitting the data stream in accordance with video complexity or other criteria, encoding each of the subsidiary data streams in accordance with a desired encoding standard, and combining the data streams to generate an output. The encoding system and method is particularly suited to encoding data streams to provide an output with is substantially consistent with the H.264 video communications standard. The system and method are scalable.

Abstract: A CBR/VBR hybrid implementation encoding video streams for conserving bandwidth usage in a channel comprises, in an exemplary arrangement, CBR encoding for frames whose complexity exceeds a threshold, and uses VBR encoding for frames whose complexity is below the threshold. In some embodiments, the threshold can be dynamically adjusted to permit varying amounts of bandwidth reclamation. The complexity can be determined based on a motion estimation analysis or on other indicia such as the level of detail in a frame.

Abstract: An array encoding system and method for use with high definition digital video data streams includes method and means for analyzing the incoming data stream, splitting the data stream in accordance with video complexity or other criteria, encoding each of the subsidiary data streams in accordance with a desired encoding standard, and combining the data streams to generate an output. The encoding system and method is particularly suited to encoding data streams to provide an output with is substantially consistent with the H.264 video communications standard. The system and method are scalable.