MPEG encoding
MPEG encoding is the process of capturing (digitizing) or converting (re-encoding) video and/or audio to one of several MPEG video and/or audio standards for distribution (Internet, LAN) or for archiving to optical disc (CD, DVD). MPEG encoding can be done purely in software, or by using an MPEG capture card or a video editing card with in-built MPEG encoding capabilities, or via a dedicated hardware encoder like those built-into DVD-Video recorders.
Further information: Moving Picture Experts Group