converting AVI file?

[tebstan]

I have a security system that records to an .avi file. I need to get some video on a dvd to hand over to someone else. I can get the .avi to a flash drive, but windows media player won't read it on any computer other than the one with the security system...

I have to give the video to local government, who probably don't have the freedom to download whatever it takes to make it work. So I need to convert the files before burning a disc. Since I don't know what software they have I want it to be in a .wmv file, or something universally compatible.

Problem is, I don't have a clue how to do that and I could spend hours trying to figure it out and still not get it done in time.

Any ideas? I really don't want to invite city hall into my living room to watch the video here on the original system.


It's a GeoVision system if that matters, GV-800.

[hobogato]

handbrake is a free program that should do what you need. just google it and you should be able to download it for free.

[jroescher]

You probably will not be able to convert it. The security program is likely using a proprietary CODEC. Check to see if there is a function in the security program to export the video. Or check the website for the security program to see if there is a player available.

[tebstan]

The only option I have other than .avi is to save it as an .exe

I haven't tried it yet because I was under the impression it would take up more space for that file type?

I have about a dozen different files to save, but most are only 2 or 3 minutes (from different cameras)

[tony]

another vote for handbrake!!!

[tebstan]

I tried downloading Handbrake, got an error message when I tried to run it: "Handbrake.exe is not a valid Win32 application"

I tried saving a video as an .exe instead of an .avi. I was able to get it to play in Media player on another computer, but the size of the viewing area is smaller, and the file size is x2.25 larger. At least it plays; now to see if it will all fit on a dvd.

Thanks for the responses, I wasn't planning on spending so much time on this today, but I need it in the morning.

[rrasco]

Video conversions can be a royal PITA. Most likely if it's AVI it is using some weird codec. You can try virtualdub which should let you save in a codec of your choosing, like DIVX or XVID. Once the video is open, choose the video option from teh menu and select compression...this is where you can set the codec of your choosing. You may have to install DIVX or XVID codecs on your system so they are available for use, I think they will playback natively on any newer system. FWIW, codec = compression/decompression.

What OS are you running and which architecture (32 or 64 bit)? That error is probably because you are trying to run a 64 bit application on a 32 bit system, or the file is actually corrupt. Either way, try virtualdub, it's free and you don't even have to install it; it's as portable app.

[lildingy]

I use freemake its a free software, seems to work pretty well on file conversions, + it has a burn option.

[tebstan]

I tried XVID, it didn't work, I gave up... I'm not too savvy with this stuff yet and I was in a hurry. I got the .exe to work, but it works on my computer (windows XP) but not on my mom's (windows 7).

I already turned over some copies. I have another rep coming to the house tomorrow who will get a copy or just watch it on my system. If they can't get the video to play, they can come watch my 16 cameras. Proof is proof.

To anyone who makes any kind of house calls, always assume you are being watched, from any and every angle.