Efficient coding scheme for super high definition video based on extending H.264 high profile

H.264 High Profile, one of the standard video coding schemes, can be utilized for super high definition video since target image resolution is up to 4096x2304. However, in the case of encoding super high definition video such as the 4Kx2K system whose resolution corresponds to 4096x2160, the coding syntax might be redundant since available macroblock size become quite small compared to the image resolution. The problem is caused by the limitation of the macroblock size by which motion compensated prediction is conducted. To overcome the problem within the framework of the H.264 High Profile encoder, extending the limitation of macroblock size is required. From this perspective, this paper describes an efficient coding scheme applicable to super high definition video based on extending the H.264 High Profile. As the key technology of the proposed coding scheme, an approach for extending the limitation of available macroblock size is introduced. From experimental results, it was confirmed that the outstanding coding gain was achieved by the proposed scheme especially for the low bit-rate condition.