Calculator for CCE single-pass VBR mode

I wrote this calculator for myself, but thought I'd post it here in case it could help anyone else. When I re-encode DVDs, I follow Trilight's method, and I only ever use CCE. Also, I only ever do single pass VBR encodes. I have a 53" 16:9 hi-def TV and have never been able to tell the difference. So, if you do not do single-pass VBR encodes, you can stop reading because this calculator will not help you. If you do, however, then feel free to use it. All you have to do is tell it how many frames your movie has, and it will tell you what to set CCE's MIN bitrate setting to. Several settings are hard-coded right now, like MAX bitrate, etc, because those are the only settings I use, and as I said, I wrote it for myself. Anyway, here it is. If you find it useful, let me know. (requires )

got it! thanks for the tool, will use it in future projects.

FamousPerson, Well done, I've dowloaded the file, I'll give it a try over the next few days and report back. It sure looks easy, reminds me of "DVD Calculator" HomerJ :D

HI, Could you make a change in the program to not gray out the Q box and max bitrate? I too only do single VBR, but i use a different Q factor(usually 37)and max bitrate of 9000, and would find your tool handy if that change was made. Good Start:)

No, I can't. The calculations it makes are based on real sample data I collected. All samples were run at Q 60 and Max 8000. The only way I could add that would be if I knew the effect that changing Q and MAX had on the end result, and I just don't have any data on it. If you do, please let me know...

FamousPerson After looking at your calculator, I think your calculations indicate that the average bitrate of the final encode is going to be approximately equal to the CCE minimum value you enter here. From the calculations I do all the time, yours indicates this. Yes?? tyee

Yes, exactly. I know it doesn't make sense, but it always seems to be very close to right. See this thread...

Not Quite working 

FamousPerson, I've tried your calculator, unfortunately, the resultant VOBs were somewhat over size. (used Black Hawk Down) I tried it 3 times, varying the minimum bitrate, as well as the "cushion" value. Frame rate is 25. Any clues ? I'll give it another go in a couple of weeks, after my holidays. HomerJ :confused:

Hmmm. Could be the high action. I have Black Hawk Down, I'll try it. I may have to add a "High Action" check box!