Introduction to Video Encoder Basics

A simple understanding of video encoders

Video encoders, also known as live digital encoders, network video encoders, and digital video encoders, mainly compress and convert the input audio and video signal source (including HDMI video encoder, SDI encoders, DVI encoders, VGA video encoder, AV/S-Video and component signals, etc.) into machine-readable digital codes. They generally use MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.264, H.265 and other encoding methods to compress the files or real-time network transmission of TS stream data, which are then output and sent to the remote receiving end or video server through a gigabit or megabit Ethernet interface RJ45 network. If the receiving end is a PC, it needs to run corresponding decoding software to decode and play. If it is a display device, it needs to be equipped with a video decoding device to decode and play. Encoders are generally called the sending end of the video source, which is an integrated device that collects, encodes, compresses, and transmits signals. Most of them support various network transmission protocols such as TS/HLS/FLV/RTSP/RTMP/UDP/RTP/unicast/multicast. They are an important component of digital network audio and video live broadcast systems.

You can also understand it simply as follows: when a video camera captures a very beautiful scene, we can call it a video source. This video source takes up a lot of storage space, and 10 minutes of content is around 50GB, so it needs high-quality compression and transfer. Or, if you want to share this beautiful video scene on the network for users, you need a video encoder to help you. The encoder's job is to compress the data and storage or publish it on the network according to the parameters or protocols you require. After it is transmitted to your client through the network, your local video decoder will restore and output this beautiful video scene according to the same protocol, and then you can watch and learn this beautiful video image scene created by your superb photography skills.

Common video encoders

• Encoders with high-definition HDMI and SDI input signals are called HDMI video encoder.

• Encoders with HEVC/H.265 encoding methods for high-definition videos are called HEVC/H.265 high-definition video encoders.
  

Main application areas of video encoders

Video stream hardware and video encoders can be widely used in various cable broadcasting systems, IPTV TV broadcast systems, network broadcasting, satellite digital TV systems, remote teaching, remote medical treatment, electronic cinema, electronic news gathering systems, personal communication, multimedia mail, network database, home theater, remote monitoring, and TV on-demand systems, etc.