How to make Virtualdub recognize my codecs...

[BlazeWizard]

Hi, i'm just an average video editting newb and i've got an odd problem. I use the CCCP Codec pack for handling all my files and it works fine. I use the mpc included and my decoding life is great! However, if I were to open a file that mpc plays in virtualdub, it states that it can't find a codec for the file and thus restricts me from many functions. So my question is, how can i make virtualdub recognize the codecs that CCCP installed?

[guns1inger]

Where to start ?

1. Codec packs are not a good idea, and are not recommended by most around here. They have a habit of installing codecs with the ability to properly uninstall then, they are aften installed with conflicting settings, and they can completely ruin an installation. Recommended practice is to install only the codecs you need, as you need them.

2. MPC uses it's own built-in codecs wherever possible, so it may well not be using any of the codecs you have installed on your system. VLC works in a similar manner.

3. Virtualdub, I believe, only uses vfw codecs, and does not recognise directshow filters. If you have not installed the correct codecs, vdub wont see them. Another reason to steer clear of codec packs and just install what you need.

Start by uninstalling the codec pack, then using codec sniper to clean up the mess it leaves. Then use avicodec or g-spot (2.52beta version) to determine what codecs a particular video clip requires, and then, if necessary, installing just that codec.

[BlazeWizard]

That's something I would do, however isn't it a lot of work to individually download and install each codec that I might need?

And if MPC does use its own codecs, then would it be able to stand alone without the CCP codec pack that includes it?

Thanks for the help.

[guns1inger]

MPC is also used for some codec such as real alternative, where the codecs have been stripped from the player software that normally ships with them. It is also included because a) it's free, and b) it's a damned good player that will continue to work, even after the codec pack has rendered other players useless.

For most normal use, you only need a handful of codecs. If, from time to time, you need to add a new one, or upgrade an existing one, then it is two minutes out of your life. Unless you are saving the world 23 hours a day, you have the two minutes to spare. Installing crap you don't need on the off chance that you will, especially when it is done badly and risks the stability of your entire system, is just foolhardy.

[BlazeWizard]

I see what you mean. But still does CCCP have a history of seriously messing up system stability? i've never had any problems with it.

[jagabo]

CCCP appears to be just a front end for ffdshow. If that's true it won't be as problematic as most codec packs.

[celtic_druid]

Custom ffdshow build from recollection though. Possibly decoder only with no VfW support. For VDub you would need to have a VfW enabled build and to have VfW decoding enabled for whatever you want to decode.

[kschang]

I just install FFDShow directly.