An array encoding system (fig. 2) and method for use with high definition digital video data streams (200) includes method for analyzing the incoming data stream (200), splitting the data stream (215) in accordance with video complexity or other criteria (210), encoding each of the subsidiary data streams in accordance with a desired encoding standard (230), and combining the data streams to generate an output (235). The encoding system and method is particularly suited to encoding data streams to provide an output with is substantially consistent with the H.264 video communications standard. The system and method are scalable.
