Compressor-Decompressor algorithm for encoding and decoding digital video data.
Definition
A codec (compressor-decompressor) is an algorithm or software that compresses (encoding) and decompresses (decoding) digital video and audio data. Codecs make it possible to reduce the enormous amounts of data from video material to practical sizes.
Practical Application
Professional codecs: ProRes (Apple), DNxHD/DNxHR (Avid), XAVC (Sony). Delivery codecs: H.264, H.265/HEVC, AV1. Each codec offers different trade-offs between quality, file size, and processing power.
Technical Details
Difference between intra-frame codecs (each frame compressed individually, e.g., ProRes) and inter-frame codecs (utilize similarities between frames, e.g., H.264). For editing, intra-frame codecs are better; for delivery, inter-frame codecs are more efficient.
Current News
Current recorders like the new Atomos Ninja models 2024/2025 support multiple codecs simultaneously and are increasingly relying on H.265 as the preferred standard for client projects. The integration of CFexpress Type B storage enables the recording of data-intensive codecs in the highest quality. Modern external recorders increasingly offer codec selection directly on the device for various workflow requirements.