Software - Only Real - Time MPEG - 2 Video Encoding on The C 62 x VLIW

Due to their high computational demand, MPEG-2 video coding solutions have been based mainly on custom hardware (ASIC) systems. Such systems lack the flexibility and adaptability of software-based solutions. Achieving real-time MPEG-2 video encoding in software remains to be a major challenge. A typical MPEG-2 encoder performs 20 to 30 GOPS (Giga operations per second), which exceeds the capabilities of the most advanced contemporary processors. We have developed and tested a highly optimized, low complexity, high-quality MPEG-2 video encoder software based on Texas Instruments' fixed-point TMS320C6201 VLIW processor. The current version of the encoder can handle SIF (or 320x240 resolution) video format at 40 frame per second, i.e. faster than real-time. For CCIR 601 (or 720x480 resolution) at our algorithm encodes 15 frames per second. Our real-time MPEG-2 encoder has been implemented and tested on the C62x Evaluation Model (EVM) board from TI. Our encoder software was optimized at the assembly language level to maximize the attainable ILP of the C62x VLIW architecture. Currently, the real-time encoder can handle both I and P pictures in CIF video format, and I pictures only in CCIR video format. We believe that this is a big leap forward towards achieving real-time video encoding in software only on a VLIW DSP. Our next work will be the implementation of a full-featured MPEG-2 encoder at MP@ML (CCIR in real-time with I, P, and B frames) using a quad-chip C6x configuration. * This research was supported by a grant from the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada and by a grant Rogers Communications.