Abstract. A cross-layer optimization scheme is proposed for scalable video transmission over wireless Multiple Input Multiple Output Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) systems. The scalable video coding (SVC) extension of H.264/AVC is used for video source coding. The proposed cross-layer optimization scheme jointly optimizes application layer parameters and physical layer parameters. The objective is to minimize the expected video distortion at the receiver. Two methods have been developed for the estimation of video distortion at the receiver, which is essential for the cross-layer optimization. In addition, two different priority mappings of the SVC scalable layers are considered. Experimental results are provided and conclusions are drawn
