PURPOSE: To execute image encoding processings in parallel with one unit and to enable a user to assign the priority of the arbitrary encoding processing by time dividedly executing the respectively independent plural encoding processings with each of the processings.

CONSTITUTION: A time division setting section 11 determines the timing for switching the encoding processings of a time divided processing control section 10 and the allotment to the respective encoding processings of serial/parallel conversion registers 7, 8 in accordance with the user's instruction inputted via a host system bus. The time divided processing control section 10 executes the selection of the output destination of the encoded picture information from the shift register 6 and the selection of a multiplexer 9 by each of the respective encoding processings in correspondence to the processings to be encoded inputted by an input section 1.