Video encoding methods and video encoders that provide improved
performance while reducing power consumption. In one aspect, a video
encoding method comprises the steps of outputting a parameter for a slice
of a current frame, wherein the slice comprises a plurality of
macroblocks, processing the slice by consecutively encoding and decoding
each macroblock of the slice in response to the parameter, and outputting
an interrupt signal for the slice The parameter preferably comprises an
address of the first macroblock of the slice, an address of a search area
in a previous frame, the search area corresponding to a current
macroblock in a current frame, and a number of macroblocks comprising the
slice.