The DVB group has revised its implementation guidelines for audio and video coding to include H.264/AVC video (MPEG-4 Part 10) compression schemes.
The previous DVB standards document provided support for MPEG-2 video. This revision adds H.264/AVC video (MPEG-4 Part 10) to the range of codecs that may be used in DVB applications, offering substantial improvements in coding efficiency. The new version also provides support for the High Efficiency AAC (HE-AAC) audio compression scheme in addition to MPEG-1 Layer II, Dolby AC-3 and DTS audio.
Peter MacAvock, executive director of the DVB said: “This document is one of the most important DVB documents, and a key to ensuring the interoperability of DVB equipment and transmissions. It is the basis of all MPEG-2 DVB decoders in the market. The addition of H.264/AVC and HE-AAC paves the way for using these exciting codecs in mainstream DVB applications like HDTV.”
The new document mandates support of Main Profile for H.264/AVC standard definition receivers, with an option for the use of High Profile. The support of High Profile is mandated for H.264/AVC high definition receivers.
The Digital Video Broadcasting Project is an industry-led consortium responsible for the development of standards for the delivery of digital television and data services.