Newbie: Why do you need a DV CODEC if it's already compresse

[ToeCutter]

I've been reading more about Mini DV and DV editing. I understand that Mini DV has a fixed compression rate of 5:1. I also understand that the DV camera compresses on the fly as it writes to tape. So why is there a need for a DV CODEC in order to transfer the video to a PC? I'm using MS Movie Maker (it's the only capture utility I can find that will save video as a raw DV-AVI) that comes with Windows XP. MS MM requires a great deal of time to convert the DV-AVI after it is captured. What's happening at this point of the capture process?

Trying very hard......

[sommersby]

because the codec is for compressing and DECOMPESSING, you need the proper codec to read the file.

[ironwood321]

Also becuase the internal microsoft codec is DirectShow you don't have a usable codec for non direct show avi applications. Like Mpeg and avi tools. Virtualdub etc

Its also gives you some benifits like you can use it for capture with an anologue capture card.

Mainconcept DV Codec is good

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: ironwood321 on 2002-01-12 10:07:33 ]</font>

[ToeCutter]

Eh, I figured it out. I thought MM was compressing after capture, it was simply making one minute cue clips. Yes, I feel silly.

If I do decide to go for the Main Concept DV codec, what frontend do I use? I assume that any app with capture capability will suffice?

Thanks...