Convert proprietary video to another format?
Morning DigitalFAQ,
Firstly, very nice forums :) I’m looking for outline guidance on how to convert digital video/metadata captured in a proprietary format to an open format (e.g. MPEG4). Other than a sample of the proprietary video, what else is required? E.g description of the proprietary specification (container format, codec etc). Also, would any of the free tools/libraries out there be useful, such as FFmpeg/VLC? I’ve done some basic research (and continue to search on here) but do not yet know how to go about this so am seeking advice on an outline approach. Thanks! |
The first step would be identify it. What is the format of the existing video? What program/hardware was used to capture/record/encode it? Sometimes the file name (extension) can provide a clue. Some times software like Media Info can identify it. You may be able to find information in the file's header that identifies it.
There are a number of "dead" formats around, but it may be possible to find software, or hardware, that can play or convert it. FWIW: A number of years ago I was given some CDs with encoded video (from historical event films) on them. They were encoded in an early variant of the defunct Intel Indeo Video (if I recall correctly) format and required a special overlay board (found one through a liquidator) that worked with a VGA card and and Windows 3 to be viewed. (Turned out the film was available in digital form in more recent, higher quality digital formats so the effort was unnecessary beyond identifying the specific content.) |
Thanks for the tips. I will looks at using Linux utilities such as 'strings' to try and reveal more.
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A few things needed.
-What is the file extension of the files? (AVI, etc.) -What does GSpot say the file format is if its a standard container like AVI or MP4. -Where did the file come from? This could be useful in determining the playback program if the file was from a specific industry. ie: security camera footage or recorded interviews for court/police work. |
Two software tools. One of them is unfortunately named, making it difficult to search for.
MediaInfoXP from https://muldersoft.com/ GSpot Codec Identifier from http://www.headbands.com/gspot/ |
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