Cross-layer optimization for the Scalable Video Codec over WLAN

A major limitation for wireless video communication over portable devices is the limited energy supply. For this reason, an efficient energy usage becomes a critical issue. In this paper we focus on the energy minimization of the two main energy consumers at the device: video encoding and wireless communication tasks. For this purpose, we develop a cross-layer approach that explores the tradeoff between coding and communication energies. We then exploit the Power-Rate tradeoffs and flexibility of the Scalable Video Codec. Our results show that by adapting the codec configuration at runtime to the specific scenarios we can save up to 40% of the total energy without video quality loss. Moreover, our approach is of low complexity and easily deployable.