An Efficient Wavelet-Based Image Coder

The embedded zero-tree wavelet (EZW) coding algorithm which was first introduced by Shapiro is a very effective technique for low bit-rate still image compression. In the current study, we propose a novel algorithm to improve the performance of EZW coding. To reduce the scanning and symbol redundancy of the existing EZW the proposed method is based on the use of six symbols instead of four. The purpose of this technique is to avoid the encoding of the children of each significant coefficient on the condition that it has no significant descendant. In addition, It is shown that this new technique is not only fast and computationally efficient, but also retains the property of embeddedness and obtains higher coding efficiency when compared with the conventional EZW.