Abstract: In a channel zapping though multiple channels, each channel select identifies a new packet stream channel and the video coding standard of the channel is identified. Based on the video coding standard an optimal input buffer delay is identified, a packet stream for the new channel delayed by the optimal input buffer delay, and decoded by a decoding process according to video coding standard. Optionally, based on the video coding standard an optimal an optimal decoding processing delay is identified and the decoding applies an associated processing delay.