When is a transcoder required?

When is a transcoder required?

• A. Always for all calls
• B. When using SIP trunk
• C. Only for video
• D. Different codecs

Answer: (D)

A transcoder is needed when two endpoints don’t share a common codec. Its job is to convert the media stream from one codec to another so both sides can decode and understand it. If both ends can negotiate and use the same codec, no transcoding is required. The need for transcoding therefore arises from a mismatch in codecs across the call path, whether for audio or video. It isn’t tied to SIP trunks specifically and isn’t required for every call—only when the codecs on the sending and receiving sides (or across the path) differ. For example, if one device uses G.711 and the other uses G.729, a transcoder would bridge them.

A transcoder is needed when two endpoints don’t share a common codec. Its job is to convert the media stream from one codec to another so both sides can decode and understand it. If both ends can negotiate and use the same codec, no transcoding is required. The need for transcoding therefore arises from a mismatch in codecs across the call path, whether for audio or video. It isn’t tied to SIP trunks specifically and isn’t required for every call—only when the codecs on the sending and receiving sides (or across the path) differ. For example, if one device uses G.711 and the other uses G.729, a transcoder would bridge them.