An Optimized Video Encoder Implementation with Screen Content Coding Tools

Abstract

Screen content video applications require efficient coding of computer-generated materials. The new screen content coding tools such as intra block copy (IBC) and palette mode (PLT) have addressed this requirement. However, the added computational complexity on top of the existing sophisticated video encoders is also challenging. In this paper, we focus on the fast and efficient encoder implementation of these screen content coding tools. Improvements on hash-based IBC search, PLT optimization, mode decision between PLT and intra mode, and other general encoder accelerations towards screen content applications are studied and discussed. Experimental results show that with these methods added, the encoder can achieve some faster runtime performance than before while the compression efficiency is almost doubled with screen content coding tools.