The Application of Picture Coding Techniques to Viewdata

In March 1980 the British Post Office described research that has led to a facility for inserting high quality coloured pictures in viewdata pages. The technique is to use picture coding technology (originally devised for surveillanrce and teleconferencing) to reduce the number of bits required so that the use of low bandwidth circuits is feasible. This paper gives further technical details and describes some possible applications. A brief account of the current state of viewdata activities in the UK is included to explain why this development is regarded as important.