Rate-distortion optimized layered coding with unequal error protection forrobust Internet video

In this paper, we present an effective framework for increasing the error-r esilience of low bit-rate video communications over error-prone packet-swit ched networks. Our framework is based on the principle of layered coding wi th transport prioritization, We introduce a rate-distortion optimized mode- selection algorithm for our prioritized layered framework, This algorithm i s based on a joint source/channel-coding approach and trades off source-cod ing efficiency for increased bitstream error-resilience to optimize the vid eo-coding mode selection within and across layers, The algorithm considers the channel conditions, as well as the error recovery and concealment capab ilities, of the channel codec and source decoder, respectively. Important f ramework parameters including the packetization Scheme, decoder error-conce alment method, and channel codec error-protection strength are considered. The effects of mismatch between the parameters employed by the encoder and the actual channel conditions are considered. Results are presented for a w ide range of packet loss rates in order to illustrate the benefits of the p roposed framework.