VC-3 Codec Updates for Handling Better, Faster, and More Pixels

As the industry moves toward handling better (high dynamic range or HDR), faster (high frame rates), and more (higher resolutions) pixels, the SMPTE VC-3 video codec standard has been improved to meet the challenges. The extension to the standard allows for resolution-independent encoding of arbitrary raster resolution, any frame rate, multiple bit depths, and different color spaces. New features of the codec include new quality levels (4:2:0, 4:2:2, 4:4:4), an alpha channel, serial digital interface (SDI)-safe and graphics level, out-of-band encoding, and support in various container types. As a low-complexity codec appropriate for editorial intermediates and collaborative editing, the high-performance characteristics and predictable bit rate properties are discussed. Its value as a mezzanine format is illustrated with the ability to preserve original resolutions, color, and temporal properties from acquisition formats, post production, and visual effects (VFX) rendering. Working together with corresponding metadata defined in popular wrapper formats such as Material eXchange Format (MXF) and QuickTime, its use for post-production workflows involving HDR, wide gamuts, and Super Hi-Vision will be shown.