Compression

Run-Length Encoding (RLE) Compression and Analysis

Source Code:
View the project on GitHub

Overview

This project implements a run-length encoding (RLE) compression algorithm in C and pairs it with a Python-based analysis script to study and visualize compression behavior. The goal is to explore fundamental data compression techniques, sequential data processing, and the trade-offs between compression efficiency and input characteristics.

Run-length encoding is a simple, lossless compression method that replaces consecutive repeated values with a single value and a count. While straightforward, RLE highlights important concepts in algorithm design, state tracking, and file-based data processing.

C Implementation

The core compression logic is implemented in C, where input data is processed sequentially and encoded as value–count pairs. The program is organized into multiple source and header files to enforce modular design and separation of concerns.

Key characteristics of the C implementation include:

  • Sequential scanning of input data
  • Detection and encoding of repeated runs
  • Clear separation between program control logic and compression functionality
  • File-based input and output handling

This structure improves readability, maintainability, and mirrors software design patterns used in systems-level programming.

Python Analysis and Visualization

To support evaluation and reporting, a Python script using NumPy and Matplotlib is included to analyze and visualize the behavior of the RLE compression algorithm.

The Python component:

  • Generates numerical data related to compression behavior
  • Produces plots illustrating trends such as compression efficiency
  • Exports figures as PDF files suitable for reports or submissions

This separation of implementation (C) and analysis (Python) reflects a realistic engineering workflow, where performance-critical code is written in a low-level language and evaluated using higher-level tools.

Skills Demonstrated

  • Implementation of run-length encoding (RLE) compression algorithms
  • Sequential data processing and state tracking in C
  • Modular software design using multiple source and header files
  • Command-line program structure and file I/O
  • Data analysis and visualization using Python, NumPy, and Matplotlib
  • Separation of algorithm implementation and performance analysis