HD file compression software

[Richinald]

Hello,

I would like to request if there might be any suggestions and recommendations for HD file compression software.
We would like to archive our HD files in a smaller file size, but at the same time to maintain a good/acceptable quality for later playback in the future should be this required for pulling out the compressed HD file from the storage device (hard-drive).

Also if the software does support or can save the compressed HD file in a 'format' that the Fork automation system (build by Primestream Corp) would be able to playback
these files.

Any recommendations would be highly appreciated.

Thanks
Regards,

Richinald

[eadler]

If your playback server system can handle it, h.264 appears to be the current state of the art for compression of HD material. Some say it can be run at 1/2 the rate of MPEG2 with no quality difference (some say you need a higher rate, some say it can go lower), but I personally wouldn't go below 3/4 of MPEG2. Processing tends to cost more than storage space, however, and it may require an upgrade and/or replacement of your playback (and recording) systems. You really shouldn't want to transcode existing content unless you have no other option.