Windows Media Video 9 Screen codec

[George2]

Hello everyone,

When using Windows Media Encoder 9 to record screen, we can select two video codecs, (1) Windows Media Video 9 codec and (2) Windows Media Video 9 Screen codec.

My questions,

1. I am a little concerned about using (2), since I think for most client computer, they intalled with Windows Media Video 9 codec, but no Windows Media Video 9 screen codec. So the video recorded/encoded using Windows Media Video 9 screen codec will have trouble to play on most computers? Not sure whether my understanding is correct?

2. For recording quality/performance, whether (1) or (2) is preferred?

3. Any other good advice for the choices between (1) and (2) when recording screen using WME 9?

thanks in advance,
George

[Krispy Kritter]

(1) is for video, (2) is for screen captures (ie: static images).

In other words, (1) is for standard video, (2) would be for a slide show or presentation type use.


More info: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/forpros/codecs/video.aspx

[George2]

Thanks! 1. if I nede to record screen operation as Demo (I need to record mouse motions and all operations of related applications on my computer), which one do you think is more appropriate, and why?

2. For my concern item 1 in my original post about the universal availability of Screen code, is my understanding correct?

(1) is for video, (2) is for screen captures (ie: static images).

In other words, (1) is for standard video, (2) would be for a slide show or presentation type use.


More info: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/forpros/codecs/video.aspx

[JohnnyMalaria]

The screen codec captures all the activity on the screen. i.e., not just a single frame. The video created is just a WMV file but is very, very efficient - e.g., 93 seconds of 1280 x 1024 for less than 800KB. It includes all mouse movements, text cursors etc etc. But it isn't recommended for screens with significant photo/video content. You can restrict capture to a single window or a region of the screen. Other people will be able to view the file in WMP without any issues (my experience, at least).

[George2]

Thanks JohnnyMalaria,

1. In my scenario, I need to record the whole screen, and there are a lot of motions (like mouse movement) and animation/video/pictures, in my scenario, do you suggest to use screen codec or video codec? And why?
2. You mean screen codec is also popular and WMP default installation could render?

The screen codec captures all the activity on the screen. i.e., not just a single frame. The video created is just a WMV file but is very, very efficient - e.g., 93 seconds of 1280 x 1024 for less than 800KB. It includes all mouse movements, text cursors etc etc. But it isn't recommended for screens with significant photo/video content. You can restrict capture to a single window or a region of the screen. Other people will be able to view the file in WMP without any issues (my experience, at least).