Searching for alternative codecs

The Leader in Secure Video Delivery Software

The Clipstream® Video Encoder requires that you have a proper codec for a video source file in order to transcode it into the Clipstream® Video format. If the Encoder cannot encode it at first, try searching for a new codec.

Discussion

A Codec, or encoder/decoder, is a program used to translate an analog video into a digital format so that it can be played back on a computer. Any video player requires that you have the codec used to encode the video in order to decode it for viewing. Clipstream™ Video Encoder needs this also. (See another definition of Codec).

Examples of codecs include:

.h264
DivX
Windows Media Audio 9

Analyzing source files to find their codecs

In general, if you are able to play the video file on the encoding computer, you have a codec that can be used to transcode it. However, occasionally you may need to find an alternative codec if encoding fails.

There are a few third-party codec analyzers that you can use to analyze what codec your player uses.

NOTE: Although we use some of tools and codecs listed on this page, we do not provide any warranties for third-party software you may install. Always scan downloads for viruses or spyware.

Finding codecs

After analyzing the source file, the program might list a number of codecs that could be used to play it back. You can then search for the codec on the web and install it.

Common playback codecs usually come with players. Microsoft Media Player and Apple QuickTime both install codecs with their installation packages.

Warning: ALWAYS scan a codec download for viruses or spyware, especially when installing various "codec packs".

Then restart the Clipstream® Video Encoder and try the encode again.