transkoder

A transkoder is a device or software program that converts audio or video signals from one format to another. This process is often necessary for compatibility, editing, or streaming purposes. For example, a transkoder might be used to convert a high-resolution video file into a lower-resolution format suitable for mobile playback, or to change the audio codec of a recording to a more widely supported standard.

The core function of a transkoder involves decoding the source signal into an intermediate, uncompressed format, and then re-encoding it into the desired target format. This can involve changes to the file container (e.g., from MP4 to AVI), the video codec (e.g., from H.264 to HEVC), or the audio codec (e.g., from AAC to MP3). The specific parameters for the re-encoding, such as bitrate, resolution, and frame rate, can often be customized by the user.

Transkoding is a common practice in media production, post-production, and content distribution. It allows for flexibility in how media is handled, ensuring that it can be accessed and utilized across a wide range of devices and platforms. While transkoding can be essential, it can also lead to some loss of quality, especially when converting to lower-bitrate formats or when performing multiple transkoding steps, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as "generation loss."