Splitting MKV Files

[codeseven]

After doing a bit of research, it seems as though MKVMerge is the best tool for splitting files. The only issue I'm running into is that it is not allowing me to get specific. Let me explain...

I have an MP4 file that is a cartoon show. It's one file, however it's two 11 minute episodes. I need to be able to split the file at a certain time, for example I need the file to split 11m13s after it begins. On MKVMerge, I see the Global tab and I see where I can input a certain time frame for it to be split. But whenever I put 11m13s in the field, it never splits it at that time. It will split it at say 11m10s or 11m16s - it's never specific. So I saw the option to use nanoseconds, but even using nanoseconds it seems to want to skip around.

Does anyone know how I can fix this, or maybe another application that will let me split the file EXACTLY where I need it to be split. Thanks

[poisondeathray]

It's not possible to be exact with mkvmerge, because you can only cut at the closest keyframe, which typically can be anywhere from 1-250 frames

In order to be precise and frame accurate, the GOP where you cut has to be re-encoded (ie. those frames around the cutsite). There are no free tools to do this

So something like SolveigMM Video Splitter or videoredo

[codeseven]

So it HAS to be re-encoded?

[poisondeathray]

So it HAS to be re-encoded?

No, only the few frames around the cutsite within that GOP are re-encoded if you use those one of those 2 tools listed that have "smart rendering" . All the other parts are passed through untouched

[codeseven]

Ok great. I appreciate your help buddy.

[codeseven]

Let me ask you this also. I really can't purchase anymore software at this time, but I have bough TMPGEnc 5. Am I able to split files with that application without re-encoding the entire file?

[poisondeathray]

I don' t think it does; if it did, it would be advertised as a feature ("smart rendering" is a strong feature to have and a good selling point)

If it's a 1 shot deal type of thing, you can use the trial versions