In a video encoder/decoder, a method processes a discrete cosine transform (DCT) block of coefficients. The method receives a DCT block of coefficients, and linearizes the DCT block of coefficients into a one dimensional array of sequentially arranged coefficients. The method stores a portion of the one dimensional array of coefficients in a register, the portion including at least two sequentially arranged coefficients. The stored portion of coefficients in the register is processed. A next portion of coefficients in the one dimensional array is processed. This is repeated until the entire DCT block of coefficients have been loaded into the register. The processing may include computing a run length value, finding a class number, or determining dequantized coefficients of a DCT block.