Viewing Video Files

You'll find all kinds of video files available on this site, all with various file formats. At first, this can seem something of a minefield, but we'll try and simplify things as best we can:

• Files ending in .rm, .ram or described as "Real Media"/"Real Video"
  These files make use of the Real Media standard, and can be viewed using either the official Real Player software (downloadable here) or alternatively, using Real Alternative. We recommend that you use Real Alternative for the reason that it isn't full of intrusive spyware and unnecessary features that come with the official software.
• Files ending in .avi or described as AVI, XVid or DivX files.
  Normal .avi files should play on pretty much any reasonably modern computer system using the media player software that comes with the operating system. However, more often than not, AVI files will require some extra doodads in order to made them play, called codecs. Installing these is a reasonably pain-free process if you download one of the various codec packs that are available around the internet, for instance the All-in-1 codec pack available here.
• Files ending in .mp4 or described as h.264, MPEG-4 or iPod video files
  These are relatively new formats that many computers won't be able to play without added software. Perhaps the easiest way to make use of these files is to install Apple Quicktime, which should enable you to view h.264 files in their full glory. If you already have an iPod or have iTunes installed, then chances are you already have this installed. Indeed, if you've got a Video iPod of some description, then h.264 files will play quite happily on it.