This self-contained introduction to multimedia (image, video, audio) covers signal processing and aspects relevant for the optimization of multimedia communication systems. It presents the theoretical background of one- and multidimensional signal processing (sampling, filtering, transforms), statistical analysis and modelling, coding and information theory, plus estimation and classification theory. Numerous practical examples are given for algorithms and design of multimedia signal compression and transmission systems, for systems performing content analysis and indexing of multimedia signals. Principles behind multimedia coding and indexing standards, e.g. MPEG-1/-2/-4/-7, also are explained in detail, including the most recent developments like the new Advanced Video Coding standard and motion-compensated interframe wavelet coding. Numerous figures and examples illustrate the concepts.