A Video Encoder converts analog or digital video to another digital video format for delivery to a decoder. For television broadcast, video encoders will typically input SDI as an uncompressed digital video signal into H.264 or HEVC.

Video encoders designed for ISR and IPTV will typically accept analog composite video, SDI or Ethernet along with application specific metadata for transporting onto different types of viewing or storage devices over over a wireless or IP-based network for viewing via computer monitors or for capture by a storage device.