FAQWhat is a codec? 'Codec' is short for compressor-decompressor. A codec is software that is used to compress or decompress a digital media file, such as a song or video. PC Media Players use codecs to play and create digital media files. Codecs are required for encoding (creating) and decoding (playing) audio and video files. With the LEAD iCompress™ codecs, you can compress large media files with no perceivable loss of quality. Our compression technology provides you with opportunities to take any video content, and compress it up to only 20% of its original file size, making it easier to stream online, place on popular handheld devices (such as the PSP™ or iPod®) or share with family, friends, or business associates. Why are codecs used to compress files? There are two main reasons why compressing a digital media file is helpful:
Are codecs and file formats the same? File formats can be viewed as a type of container. Inside the container is data that has been compressed by using a particular codec. Simple, proprietary file formats such as Windows Media, contain data that is compressed by using the Windows Media Audio and video codecs. However, advanced file formats such as Audio Video Interleaved (AVI), OGG, and MPEG-4 can contain data that is compressed by many different codecs, including H.264, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, and MCMP for video, and MP3, AC3, AAC, and Vorbis codecs for audio. Thus, you must have the correct decoder that matches the encoded content in order to be able to play these advanced files. This applies to both audio and video codecs. Why are LEAD iCompress™ codecs better than other codecs? All codecs make some tradeoff between sound or video quality, file size, and compatibility with playback programs and devices. What makes LEAD codecs unique is their ability to allow customization by content creators and consumers to suit their own particular need. For example, by utilizing LEAD MPEG-4 video and MP3 audio encoding, developers can create DivX™-compatible files. Also, LEAD’s H.264/AVC (MPEG-4 Part 10) video and AAC audio encoding can be used to create a wide variety of formats; from high-definition 1080i files to highly compressed files that work on the Apple iPod® and Sony PSP™. In the world of digital media, the MPEG-4, MPEG-2, and H.264 formats have become the codecs of choice for device manufacturers and streaming media sources. These formats are important technological advancements created out of the need for efficient, high-quality video and audio formats, while still keeping file sizes manageable. Didn't find the answer to your question? Contact support@leadtools.com and a representative will respond within 48 hours.
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