Converting movie files on a Mac

Hello,

I'm in the process of trying to record a video on my Mac. I downloaded Snapz Pro X which allows me to produce videos with audio. However, the movies are saved as .mov files and when I sent the video to someone with windows the audio was not included. Should I convert the files to a different type (i.e .avi or mpeg) and what software should I download for this? I know quicktime pro allows video files to be exported and converted, but I don't want to purchase it if converting the files is not a viable solution.

Anyone have experience with this??

Thanks

The reason the audio probably isn't playing on the Windows computer is the lack of a proper codec. Downloading a codec pack should fix the problem, especially if the file is working fine on your computer.

The mp4 format is pretty much universally supported (assuming your friend has Vista or Windows 7). Try using a program called Handbrake to convert your movie. If you want to use avi or mpeg, then use a free program called ffmpegx.

thanks a lot Kash. I'll check out those programs and see if I have any luck

Crusty old Snapz! You can choose the latest H.264 video codec, but are stuck with older audio codecs. Ambrosia Software has done the minimum to that software product. People looking for screen capture programs are now buying the new generation products.

You need to investigate the video and audio codecs used. Open the file in QuickTime Player and do a Command-I to see that information. I suspect the audio is some older codec that might not be expected with the video codec, thereby throwing off the software on the Windows system. Is it QuickTime on the Windows box?

Codecs to try might be Sorenson 3 for video with IMA 4:1 audio, or H.264 with ACC audio. If you don't have QuickTime Pro, then try using iMovie to convert the file.

Hi xstep,

Here is the formatting info I pulled up on Quicktime when I played the movie:

H.264, 1271 x 646, Millions
IMA 4:1, Mono, 22.050 kHz
IMA 4:1, Mono, 22.050 kHz

So the codecs you mentioned above should be checked out by my friends with Windows to solve the audio issues?

Thanks

What I suggested is that you fix the problem for your friend. Try opening the file in iMovie and save it as QuickTime using H.264 and ACC using the 'Export Using QuicTime...' option. See my guide on how to do that.

You can ask your friend if they have tried using QuickTime Player a free download from Apple. I'm curious because that worked for me on a Mac.