System for configuring memory space for storing single decoder table, reconfiguring same space for storing plurality of decoder tables, and selecting one configuration based on encoding scheme

A statistical decoder for decoding encoded input signals in accordance with a decoder table, comprising:

• a storage space having a first configuration adapted for storing a single decoder table of a first size;
• statistical encoder memory control register means for reconfiguring said storage space to provide a second configuration, in accordance with the encoding scheme used for the encoded input signals, adapted for storing a plurality of decoder tables of a second size, said decoder tables of said plurality of decoder tables of a second size having a lower precision than said single decoder table;
• memory select means for selecting one of said plurality of decoder tables when said storage space is in said second configuration;
• and
• means for decoding said encoded input signals selectively (1) in accordance with said single table and (2) in accordance with said selected one of said plurality of decoder tables based upon the encoding scheme used for the encoded input signals.