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Abstract

Optimizing the encoding time for a variable length coding unit involves allowing the 8.times.8 blocks to be processed consecutively. Thus, a method and apparatus that allows for efficient processing of the 8.times.8 blocks consecutively is required. A method and apparatus is provided that generates variable length code (VLC) data without requiring buffer memory for storing coefficient data temporarily or special circuitry for generating end-of-block (EOB) Codes. An input code is received. The input code includes an end-of-block (EOB) indicator, a zero run-length, and a coefficient level. The input code is converted into a corresponding VLC and the VLC is output. The input code is converted into the corresponding VLC by: (1) Forming an address based upon the EOB indicator, the zero run-length, and the coefficient level. For example, the EOB indicator may be the most significant bit of the address, followed by the zero run-length, and the least significant portion of the address may be the coefficient level. (2) Applying the address to one or more storage devices having stored therein a first group of VLC data entries and a second group of VLC data entries. (3) And, if the EOB indicator indicates that the input code is associated with the end of a block then, retrieving the corresponding VLC from a VLC data entry in the first group of VLC data entries; otherwise, retrieving the corresponding VLC from a VLC data entry in the second group of VLC data entries.

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