Concurrency techniques for arithmetic coding in JPEG2000

JPEG2000 is a recently standardized image compression algorithm. The heart of this algorithm is the coding scheme known as embedded block coding with optimal truncation (EBCOT). This contributes the majority of processing time to the compression algorithm. The EBCOT scheme consists of a bit-plane coder coupled to a MQ arithmetic coder. Recent bit-plane coder architectures are capable of producing symbols at a higher rate than the existing MQ arithmetic coders can absorb. Thus, there is a requirement for a high throughput MQ arithmetic coder. We examine the existing MQ arithmetic coder architectures and develop novel techniques capable of absorbing the high symbol rate from high performance bit-plane coders, as well as providing flexible design choices. Index Terms--Arithmetic coding, image compression, JPEG2000.