## MMPM/2 Device Driver Reference

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### Overview of Ultimotion Video Compression

Decompression (playback) of Ultimotion video is possible with very low computational complexity to enable real-time playback in a software-only environment. The "nominal Ultimotion movie" is defined as 320 x 240, 15 frames per second at a 150KB per second data rate. This movie can be played on at least a 25 MHz 80386 microprocessor. Systems with faster microprocessors are capable of higher frame rates and larger output image sizes.

Compression (recording) of Ultimotion video can be performed with a range of computational complexity. In a software-only environment using frame- grabber hardware, Ultimotion video can be compressed either in real-time or asymmetrically in conjunction with frame-step recording.

Ultimotion real-time compression provides instant video turn-around at a very low cost. The most common quality type can be used to produce 160 x 120 videos at 15 frames per second with a 25 MHz 80486 microprocessor. A larger frame size can be used to produce 320 x 240 videos at 8 frames per second. The quality level is selectable to attain different data rates. Slower systems may also be used for real time capture or record, but the frame rates will be lower.

Asymmetric compression provides the most compression and quality, but must be used in conjunction with frame-step capture, or raw input source files. With a 25 MHz 80486 microprocessor, 320 x 240 frames can be compressed in one to four seconds. Specialized capture or compression hardware will enable real-time capture with the same quality level now attained through asymmetric compression.