Patent ID: 8005143

Claim:
An image decoding apparatus for decoding at least a first coded bit stream into which header information of the H.263 coding scheme and image coded data encoded in the H.263 coding scheme are multiplexed, or for decoding a second coded bit stream into which header information of the MPEG-4 coding scheme and image coded data encoded in the MPEG-4 coding scheme are multiplexed, the image decoding apparatus comprising: coding scheme decision means for making a decision as to whether a received coded bit stream is the first coded bit stream or the second coded bit stream in response to the first header information or to the second header information; and an AC coefficient decoding means for decoding AC coefficient in the MPEG-4 decoding scheme comprising a switch for switching a decoding analysis scheme of decoding an AC prediction valid or invalid indicator information which indicates whether or not there is an available prediction process for an alternative current component of an intra-coded DCT coefficient according to the received first coded bit stream and the received second coded bit stream, wherein, when the first coded bit stream is received, the AC coefficient decoding means skips the decoding process of the AC prediction valid or invalid indicator information during a decoding analysis of a macroblock coded data, judges there is no available AC prediction, and decodes the AC coefficient without the AC prediction, and, when the second coded bit stream is received, the AC coefficient decoding means decodes the AC prediction valid or invalid indicator information so as to obtain a decoded value, determines the presence of the AC prediction based on the decoded value, and decodes the AC coefficient either with or without the AC prediction as to whether AC prediction is present.