Video File Size Difference When Burning To CDR

[Slider4073]

I can't figure this out. I have a 701MB (un-zipped) xvid file sitting in My Documents.
When I try to create a VCD with this file using Nero 7 and a 700MB 80Min. CDR, as soon as I add it to my project and get to the burn screen, it gives the following message:
Problems may occur when burning the project. Total space used: 946.2 out of 703.1 MB.
How did I end up with a 946MB file when I started out with an un-zipped 701MB file?

Not the first time this has happened with 696-701MB xvid files.

On the other hand, today I burned a 1.38GB 2 CD file, which showed as 700 and 698 MB files (un-zipped) in My Documents folder, but when created as VCD with Nero showed as 547MB or so each when added to project. No problem burning them.

Unfortunately I don't have a DVD burner yet so I'm limited to 700MB CDR/CDR-W using xvid in order to allow them to be played on TV using a stand alone DVD player. Really don't want to be limited to viewing on my pc.

Anybody clue me in?

[guns1inger]

Converting to a VCD is different to just burning an Xvid. VCD is governed by strict compliance guidelines, so really only running time influences the size, regardless of how big it was to begin with.

Are you converting all of these to VCD, or burning as data ?

Have you tried alternative burning software ?

[Slider4073]

I have only burned them as VCD (using two different versions of Nero), as my standalone DVD player in the family room will not play them if I burn them as data.
Could you suggest any alternative burning software?
I understand what you are saying about running time vs. file size.
I've been wondering if I can split the larger files myself to fit on 2 CDR's.

I will be so glad when I am able upgrade my PC.

Thanks for any help you can provide.....

[guns1inger]

Start by reading What is VCD (top left corner of this page), then read some proper authoring guides for VCD/SVCD.

[mats.hogberg]

For your convenience: Click here.

/Mats

[Slider4073]

Thanks very much guns1inger and mats. Looks like I'm headed in the right direction now.
Very glad I found this forum

[yoda313]

FYI depending on your budget you can get a brand new 16x internal dvd burner for around $35 plus shipping at places like newegg and tigerdirect online. Well worth the upgrade and you won't regret it

[Slider4073]

That will have to be the way I go for now, since I can't upgrade my archaic system right now.
Didn't realize they were that inexpensive. I'll definately check that out, sounds like it will make my life easier!
By the way, do members have ability to view each others CPU specs? (IE: To advise on compatibility issues,etc.)

Thanks yoda!

[yoda313]

Yeah put your mouse over the "computer details" button on each post people make. Not everybody has their details filled out however.

Good luck on the dvd burner front. I bought my pioneer 111d dual layer burner 16x for $35 plus shipping at newegg a few months ago and love it. Great buy.

[mats.hogberg]

do members have ability to view each others CPU specs? (IE: To advise on compatibility issues,etc.)

Yes, there's a "computer specs" button above each post, that shows what the user has filled in in his/her profile. Unfortunately, many ignore filling these things in, but they can be a great help, not having to ask for what OS/CPU/etc we're dealing with.

/Mats