Can PE7 compress AVI files?

[rudympohl]

Hi There:

I have a problem. I need to get a 925 meg AVI onto a CD whose storage limit is 700 megs. Can AVI files be compressed? Does anyone have any suggestions or solution ideas?

Thanks,
Rudy

[Steve Grisetti]

Well, yes. It is possible to save an AVI with a codec other than DV. A Divx-AVI, for instance, might well work for that kind of compression.

But if you're going to go with another codec, why not go with a format other than AVI? Since switching codecs will make it a file you'll pretty much only be able to play on a computer anyway, why not save it as DVD video -- or even as an H.264 MOV?

[rudympohl]

Hi Steve:

I'm doing it as a favour for someone who says their client needs an AVI file to play in his hotel elevator video system, must be a computer I guess.

Rudy

[Ron]

Just keep in mind that, just because it's an AVI, doesn't mean the computer will play it. There are many different flavors of AVI files (ie, it's just a container for the file).

[Steve Grisetti]

I've sent you a private message, Rudy. Basically, in version 7, you just select the timeline and then go to File/Export/Movie and, at the browse screen, click the Settings button. On the General page, select Microsoft AVI and then, on the Video page, set the Compressor to Divx (or whatever codec he's capable to playing). There's more detail in my Steve's Tips article on Advanced Output Options for Premiere Elements.
http://muvipix.com/products.php?searchp ... =0&btn.y=0

If Divx doesn't work for him, see if he can work with a WMV or MOV file. They're both virtually playable on any computer, and they're much more efficiently compressed files.

[Chuck Engels]

What is the purpose of the CD Rudy, just to transfer the media? If that is the reason then maybe you can use a small flash drive instead, they are pretty cheap these days.

It might work best to know what software will be used to play the AVI file and what types of AVI it is capable of playing. That could save you lots of time and ensure you send the right format the first time

[Bobby]

Or, use a DVD in data mode instead. Almost all modern PCs will have a DVD player, and you can write a data DVD just like you write a data CD.

[Steve Grisetti]

As I said in my PM, Rudy. We really need to get some specifics from your client on what he's capable to playing. 'AVI' is way too general.