Compatible and scalable coding of super high definition images

A fully compatible and scalable coding scheme for super high definition (SHD) video has been developed. Wavelet decomposition is performed such that the low frequency band is of CIF order, which forms a low-resolution core of the full sized video, and is coded by MPEG. The high frequency wavelet coefficients are coded by the proposed virtual zerotree which encodes the wavelets more efficiently than the simple zerotree. Embedded in the scheme is also the hierarchical motion compensation that gives high performance with a large capable compensation range, requires minimum computation, and reduces overhead motion information. With its scalability, data prioritization and precise bit-rate control, the scheme is suitable to code SHD video in multimedia applications.