How does an Inter-frame codec function differently from an Intra-frame codec?

An Inter-frame codec works by encoding frames in groups, utilizing data from multiple frames to create a compressed file. This technique boosts efficiency by taking advantage of the similarities between consecutive frames, allowing for significant data reduction. By predicting and storing only the changes between frames, Inter-frame codecs effectively manage bandwidth and storage without sacrificing too much quality.

In contrast, Intra-frame codecs encode each frame independently, which can result in larger file sizes since every frame must be compressed without referencing other frames. This independence is beneficial in certain situations, such as editing, where access to individual frames is necessary.

The option indicating that Inter-frame codecs ensure low latency refers more to Intra-frame codecs, as the independence of frames allows for quicker access, which can lessen delays in playback. Similarly, fewer errors in the encoded signal is often a characteristic of intra-frame coding, where each frame is self-contained, reducing risk accumulation from several frames being dependent on each other.

Thus, the unique method of encoding in groups is what distinctly characterizes Inter-frame codecs.