Compression Methods for Multimedia

Module code: CO7096

Data compression involves finding novel ways of representing data so that it takes very little storage, with the proviso that it should be possible to reconstruct the original data from the compressed version. Compression is essential when storage space is at a premium or when data needs to be transmitted and bandwidth is at a premium (which is almost always).

Compression is not 'one size fits all': the essence of compression is determining characteristics of the data you are trying to compress, typically patterns that you can exploit to get a compact representation. The communications, computing and entertainment industries have made data compression a part of everyday life through MP3s, DVDs, digital television etc. and has thrown up exciting opportunities for new applications of compression technologies.