Abstract: There are provided encoders, decoders, encoding methods, and decoding methods for video signal data for an image block. An encoder for encoding video signal data for an image block includes a Reduced-Resolution Update (RRU) downsampler for downsampling a full resolution prediction residual using data from at least one neighboring image block to form a low resolution downsampled prediction residual for the image block.

Abstract: A hybrid high-definition decoder and method are disclosed, for processing signal data as a plurality of block transform coefficients for each of base layer data and enhancement layer data, where the decoder includes a standard-definition decoder for decoding the standard-definition data from a base layer bitstream embodying a standard-definition data sequence, a high-definition decoder coupled to the standard-definition decoder for decoding the difference between the high-definition data and the standard-definition data from an enhancement layer bitstream stored as picture user data embodying a high-definition data sequence, and a two-layer composition unit for composing a high-definition signal data sequence from the standard-definition data and the difference between the high-definition data and the standard-definition data.

Abstract: A hybrid high-definition encoder and method are disclosed, for processing signal data as a plurality of block transform coefficients for each of base layer data and enhancement layer data, where the encoder includes a two-layer decomposition unit for decomposing an original high-definition signal data sequence into base layer data and enhancement layer data, a standard-definition encoder coupled to the decomposition unit for encoding the base layer data as a base layer bitstream embodying a standard-definition data sequence, and a high-definition encoder coupled to the decomposition unit and the standard-definition encoder for encoding only the difference between the high-definition data and the standard-definition data as base layer picture user data embodying a high-definition data sequence.

Abstract: A hybrid scalable encoder, method, and media are disclosed for processing video signal data as a plurality of block transform coefficients for each of a base layer and an enhancement layer included on a dual standard-definition and high-definition disc. The encoder includes a two-layer decomposition unit for decomposing an original high-definition signal data sequence into base layer data and enhancement layer data, a standard-definition encoder coupled to the decomposition unit for encoding the base layer data as a base layer bitstream embodying a standard-definition data sequence, and a high-definition encoder coupled to the decomposition unit and the standard-definition encoder for encoding the difference between the high-definition data and the standard-definition data as an enhancement layer bitstream embodying a high-definition data sequence.

Abstract: A method of providing multiple versions of a digital recording by multiplexing a base layer with an enhancement layer on a storage medium. The base layer can have base data representing a first version of the digital recording and the enhancement layer can have enhancement data which can be combined with the base data to represent a second version of the digital recording. The first version of the digital recording can include standard definition program content, and the second version of the digital recording can include high definition program content. The base layer and the enhancement layer can be interleaved.

Abstract: A method of providing multiple versions of a digital recording by using a first and second stream identification. The method can include the step of encoding a base layer having data representing a first version of a digital recording. The base layer can be encoded with a first stream identification, which can be 0xE0. The method also can include the step of encoding an enhancement layer with enhancement data which can be combined with the base data to represent a second version of the digital recording. The enhancement layer can be encoded with a second stream identification which can be 0xBF, 0xFA, 0xFB, 0xFC, 0xFD or 0xFE. The base and enhancement layers can be multiplexed.

Abstract: An adaptative source rate control method and apparatus utilizing a neural network are presented for controlling a data transmission of a media object over a communication network. A back propagation method transmitting control parameters related to the operation of a communications network is used for to dynamically adjust the performance of the network, in view of network parameters being sourced to a point of transmission. The bit rate and quantization level of the data stream are dynamically adjusted and shaped by the neural network in response to control parameters.