MPEG Video Format

What is MPEG?

MPEG (.mpeg, .mpg) files contain compressed video and audio using standards developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group. MPEG-1 was designed for CD-ROMs, MPEG-2 for DVDs and broadcast TV, MPEG-4 for internet streaming. The format uses lossy compression to reduce file sizes while maintaining acceptable video quality.

MPEG files combine video streams (using codecs like H.262, H.264) with audio streams (MP2, MP3, AAC) in a container format. Nearly universal playback support makes MPEG ideal for distribution, though modern formats like MP4 (based on MPEG-4) are now more common for new content.

History

The Moving Picture Experts Group was formed in 1988 to develop standards for digital video and audio compression. Their work revolutionized digital media distribution.

Key Milestones

• 1993: MPEG-1 for Video CD quality
• 1996: MPEG-2 for DVD and broadcast TV
• 1999: MPEG-4 for internet streaming
• 2003: H.264/AVC (part of MPEG-4)
• Present: Foundation for modern video formats

Key Features

Core Capabilities

• Lossy Compression: Smaller file sizes
• Multiple Resolutions: SD to HD support
• Audio/Video Sync: Combined streams
• Universal Playback: Wide device support
• Streaming Support: Progressive download
• Multiple Bitrates: Quality adjustment

Common Use Cases

Advantages

• Universal playback support
• Efficient compression
• Industry standard for DVDs
• Good quality/size ratio
• Widely compatible hardware
• Established workflows

Disadvantages

• Lossy compression (quality loss)
• Larger than modern codecs (H.265)
• Limited HD support (MPEG-2)
• Patent licensing issues
• Superseded by MP4/MKV formats

Technical Information

Format Specifications

Common Tools

• Players: VLC, Windows Media Player
• Editors: FFmpeg, Adobe Premiere
• Converters: HandBrake, FFmpeg