Difference between revisions of "WindowsFAQ-0.8.x"

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This page contains list of common questions and problems that Windows users have about VLC.
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This page contains list of common questions and problems (FAQ aka Frequently asked questions) that [[Windows]] users have about [[VLC media player]] 0.8.6.
−
 
+
{{WindowsFAQ}}
 +
{{Historical}}
 
==Video output related questions and problems==
 
==Video output related questions and problems==
 
===Why does VLC only give black, white or garbled video output?===
 
===Why does VLC only give black, white or garbled video output?===
Line 13: Line 14:
  
 
===Video shows green, blue or red lines===
 
===Video shows green, blue or red lines===
−
See [http://wiki.videolan.org/WindowsFAQ#Why_does_VLC_only_give_black.2C_white_or_garbled_video_output.3F Why does VLC only give black, white or garbled video output?]
+
See [[VSG:Video:VisualErrors]]
 +
 
 +
===How can I adjust brightness or contrast?===
 +
You can adjust brightness, contrast and other settings via '''Extend GUI'''. Open '''Settings -> Extend GUI''' to adjust these settings. Changes should show up realtime.
 +
====Can I set file specific brightness or contrast?====
 +
Yes, but it isn't that easy. You have to create VLC shortcut or bat file with proper settings. More info can be found from [http://forum.videolan.org/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=46202#p152964 this] thread
 +
 
 
==Audio output related questions and problems==
 
==Audio output related questions and problems==
 
===Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies===
 
===Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies===
−
If you hear some unwanted audio problems you can try another audio output module to see if that solves the issue. Open '''Settings -> Preferences...''' and then choosing '''Audio -> Output module''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box). There are multiple output modules you can use for audio. '''DirectX''' and '''Win32 waveOut''' should work in most cases. With ASIO only cards, you should try '''PORTAUDIO'''.
+
If you hear some unwanted audio problems you can try another audio output module to see if that solves the issue. Open '''Settings -> Preferences...''' and then choosing '''Audio -> Output module''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box). There are multiple output modules you can use for audio. '''DirectX''' and '''Win32 waveOut''' should work in most cases. Unfortunately there isn't an ASIO support in VLC.
 +
 
 
===Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies with SPDIF passthrough===
 
===Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies with SPDIF passthrough===
 
SPDIF passthrough of Dolby Digital (AC3) and DTS audiotracks don't work with all soundcards. '''Win32 waveOut''' output module should work better with SPDIF and you can also try latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] with Win32 waveOut.
 
SPDIF passthrough of Dolby Digital (AC3) and DTS audiotracks don't work with all soundcards. '''Win32 waveOut''' output module should work better with SPDIF and you can also try latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] with Win32 waveOut.
 +
 
===I don't hear dialog, conversations etc. while playing 5.1 audio===
 
===I don't hear dialog, conversations etc. while playing 5.1 audio===
 
Make sure you have select proper speaker setup from Windows audio settings or from soundcard control panel. If you have done so, make sure VLC also has right settings. '''Audio -> Audio Device''' to select proper speaker settings.
 
Make sure you have select proper speaker setup from Windows audio settings or from soundcard control panel. If you have done so, make sure VLC also has right settings. '''Audio -> Audio Device''' to select proper speaker settings.
 +
 
===How do I adjust audio delay?===
 
===How do I adjust audio delay?===
 
During playback you can press '''Ctrl + k''' or '''Ctrl + l''' to adjust audio delay (adjust step is 50 ms).
 
During playback you can press '''Ctrl + k''' or '''Ctrl + l''' to adjust audio delay (adjust step is 50 ms).
Line 26: Line 36:
 
==(Graphical) user interface related questions and problems==
 
==(Graphical) user interface related questions and problems==
 
===How can I separate playback controls from playback window?===
 
===How can I separate playback controls from playback window?===
−
Go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Interface -> Main interface -> wxWidgets''' and untick '''Embed video in interface''' selection. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
+
Go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Interface -> Main interfaces -> wxWidgets''' and untick '''Embed video in interface''' selection. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 
 +
===How can I make skinned interface my default interface?===
 +
Go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Interface -> Main interfaces''' and from '''Interface module''' dropdown box select '''Skinnable Interface'''. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
  
 
===My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC===
 
===My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC===
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====My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC (nightlies)====
 
====My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC (nightlies)====
 
Make sure you disable other software that might capture those keys while you set those keys in VLC (for example Winamp may cause issues).
 
Make sure you disable other software that might capture those keys while you set those keys in VLC (for example Winamp may cause issues).
 +
 +
===My VLC Equalizer settings aren't saved when I close VLC===
 +
This is known issue. There isn't any workaround for this in current stable releases.
 +
 +
===Can I jump to certain time?===
 +
With stable builds only option is to use '''--start-time''' from command line when you start VLC. [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] have new '''Playback -> Go to specific time...''' option in GUI.
 +
 +
===How can I change UI language?===
 +
You can use '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Interface''' and select correct language from '''Language''' drop down list. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 +
Also you can use '''--language=''' from command line if you can't navigate with current language or you want to use batch files/scripts.
 +
for example:
 +
'''vlc --language=en''' to get English. Other options are auto, en, ar, pt_BR, en_GB, ca, zh_TW, cs, da, nl, fi, fr, gl, ka, de, he, hu, it, ja, ko, ms, oc, fa, pl, pt_PT, ro, ru, zh_CN, sr, sk, sl, es, sv, tr
  
 
==Codec compatibility related questions and problems==
 
==Codec compatibility related questions and problems==
 
===How can I identify what codecs the file uses===
 
===How can I identify what codecs the file uses===
 
With VLC, Open the file you want and open '''View -> Stream and Media Info''' and go to '''Advanced information''' tab.
 
With VLC, Open the file you want and open '''View -> Stream and Media Info''' and go to '''Advanced information''' tab.
 +
 
===VLC doesn't identify used codecs correctly or gives "undf" as codec or I want more information about specs===
 
===VLC doesn't identify used codecs correctly or gives "undf" as codec or I want more information about specs===
 
There are multiple video and audio identification tools, but one very useful is tool called [http://mediainfo.sourceforge.net/ Mediainfo].
 
There are multiple video and audio identification tools, but one very useful is tool called [http://mediainfo.sourceforge.net/ Mediainfo].
 +
 
===H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback is too slow===
 
===H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback is too slow===
 
You can speed up the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback by disabling loop filter for H.264 decoding. To do this go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Other codecs -> FFmpeg''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and in the drop-down box for '''Skip the loop filter for H.264 decoding''' change it to '''All'''. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 
You can speed up the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback by disabling loop filter for H.264 decoding. To do this go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Other codecs -> FFmpeg''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and in the drop-down box for '''Skip the loop filter for H.264 decoding''' change it to '''All'''. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 
===H.264/MPEG-4 AVC interlaced content crashes VLC (MBAFF and PAFF)===
 
===H.264/MPEG-4 AVC interlaced content crashes VLC (MBAFF and PAFF)===
 
This is known issue. Current stable VLC versions don't support interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC content. Latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] should support most interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC videos.
 
This is known issue. Current stable VLC versions don't support interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC content. Latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] should support most interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC videos.
 +
 
===No Real audio or Real video support===
 
===No Real audio or Real video support===
 
Current stable VLC doesn't play all Real video or audio codecs but support has gotten little better on latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 
Current stable VLC doesn't play all Real video or audio codecs but support has gotten little better on latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 +
 
===Why can't VLC use CoreAVC, FFDshow, AC3filter, etc. codecs?===
 
===Why can't VLC use CoreAVC, FFDshow, AC3filter, etc. codecs?===
 
VLC only uses build in codecs so it doesn't support VfW or DirectShow APIs for codecs.
 
VLC only uses build in codecs so it doesn't support VfW or DirectShow APIs for codecs.
 
====But you support [[DMO]] (Direct Media Object) module for WMV video and WMA audio====
 
====But you support [[DMO]] (Direct Media Object) module for WMV video and WMA audio====
 
WMV and WMA are exceptions to this external codec support.
 
WMV and WMA are exceptions to this external codec support.
 +
 
==File and media format compatibility related questions and problems==
 
==File and media format compatibility related questions and problems==
 
===Some DVD movies don't work at all or they crash/freeze to menu or playback===
 
===Some DVD movies don't work at all or they crash/freeze to menu or playback===
 
If you open DVD with '''DVD (menus)''' selection, try just plain '''DVD''' option (aka '''dvdsimple''').
 
If you open DVD with '''DVD (menus)''' selection, try just plain '''DVD''' option (aka '''dvdsimple''').
  
−
Some new DVD movies use copy protection mechanisms that VLC doesn't support. It might help if you rip that movie to hard drive using tools like DVDFab Decrypter or AnyDVD and start VLC playback from hard drive.
+
Some new DVD movies use copy protection mechanisms that VLC doesn't support. It might help if you rip that movie to hard drive using tools like DVDFab Decrypter or AnyDVD and use VLC to playback these files from hard drive.
  
 
===DVD movies don't playback smooth (they stutter, lag, etc.)===
 
===DVD movies don't playback smooth (they stutter, lag, etc.)===
−
One thing that might help is increasing the VLC DVD cache. This can be done from '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Access Modules -> DVD with menus''' (or '''DVD without menus''' if you use dvdsimple method for playback) (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and increase '''Caching value in MS''' value to for example to 5000 or to 20000.
+
One thing that might help is increasing the VLC DVD cache. This can be done from '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Access Modules -> DVD with menus''' (or '''DVD without menus''' if you use dvdsimple method for playback) (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and increase '''Caching value in MS''' value to for example to 5000 or to 20000. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 
 +
===Can I play DVD files (VOB+IFO) from hard drive?===
 +
Yes you can. Use '''File -> Open Disc...''' and instead of DVD drive, point the location to correct folder by using customize field (Nightly build also has '''Browse...''' button). For example: '''dvd://"c:\movies\BLOOD DIAMOND\VIDEO_TS"'''
 +
 
 
===FLV (Flash Video) rewind doesn't work===
 
===FLV (Flash Video) rewind doesn't work===
 
This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 
This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 +
 +
===How do I handle the broken AVI files?===
 +
Some AVI files may give '''The AVI file is broken. Seeking not work correctly.Do you want to try to repair(this might take a long time)''' dialog. Those AVI files have some issues and you can try to fix those file temporarily with VLC or permanently with other tools. If you don't fix those files, seeking won't work correctly and those files may also crash players.
 +
====Can I always perform same repair action?====
 +
Yes you can. This can be done from '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Demuxers -> AVI''' and select the wanted action from '''Force index creation''' dropdown box. '''Ask''' is default (it will always ask what you want to do). '''Always fix''' tries to always fix AVI files and '''Never fix''' always starts the playback without fixing. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 +
====Can I fix those broken AVI files permanently?====
 +
Yes. You can try for example [http://divfixpp.sourceforge.net/home.htm DivFix++] or [http://www.virtualdub.org/ Virtualdub] for fixing. Virtualdub [http://forum.videolan.org/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=45427&p=143688&hilit=virtualdub#p143688 help].
 +
 
===Some MP4 or 3GP files don't have audio at all===
 
===Some MP4 or 3GP files don't have audio at all===
 
If those files have AMR audio (usually ones from mobile phones) they won't work with current stable VLC versios. You can try latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] to see if they work better with AMR audio.
 
If those files have AMR audio (usually ones from mobile phones) they won't work with current stable VLC versios. You can try latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds] to see if they work better with AMR audio.
 +
 
===MP4 and MKV rewind time is equal to system uptime===
 
===MP4 and MKV rewind time is equal to system uptime===
 
This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 
This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 +
 
===Transport stream (TS and M2TS) files or Blu-ray files don't work===
 
===Transport stream (TS and M2TS) files or Blu-ray files don't work===
 
This is known issue. Some MPEG-2 only files work but H.264/MPEG-4 AVC or VC-1 inside guarantees failure.
 
This is known issue. Some MPEG-2 only files work but H.264/MPEG-4 AVC or VC-1 inside guarantees failure.
 +
 
===No RA, RAM, RMVB support===
 
===No RA, RAM, RMVB support===
−
Please see [http://wiki.videolan.org/WindowsFAQ#No_Real_audio_or_Real_video_support No Real audio or Real video support].
+
Please see [[WindowsFAQ#No_Real_audio_or_Real_video_support|No Real audio or Real video support]].
 +
 
 +
===I have many MKV files in same folder and that seems to cause issues to VLC===
 +
This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 +
 
 
===MOD files from my video camera don't work===
 
===MOD files from my video camera don't work===
 
This is known issue. There are currently two workarounds. Either change file extension from .mod to .mpg or remove '''libmod_plugin.dll''' file from '''vlc\plugins''' folder.
 
This is known issue. There are currently two workarounds. Either change file extension from .mod to .mpg or remove '''libmod_plugin.dll''' file from '''vlc\plugins''' folder.
Line 74: Line 126:
 
===How do I adjust subtitle delay?===
 
===How do I adjust subtitle delay?===
 
During playback you can press '''Ctrl + h''' or '''Ctrl + j''' to adjust subtitle delay (adjust step is 50 ms).
 
During playback you can press '''Ctrl + h''' or '''Ctrl + j''' to adjust subtitle delay (adjust step is 50 ms).
 +
 
===How can I select right subtitle track?===
 
===How can I select right subtitle track?===
 
If your video has multiple subtitle tracks, you can select the one you would like to see from '''Video -> Subtitles Track'''.
 
If your video has multiple subtitle tracks, you can select the one you would like to see from '''Video -> Subtitles Track'''.
 +
 
===Can I disable hardcoded or "burned" subtitles with VLC?===
 
===Can I disable hardcoded or "burned" subtitles with VLC?===
 
No.
 
No.
 +
 
===Dragging and dropping the subtitles to VLC disables pause===
 
===Dragging and dropping the subtitles to VLC disables pause===
 
This is known issue. It will be hopefully fixed in upcoming releases. Only solution is to either open subtitles from '''Use a subtitles file''' when you open file you want to watch or trust to '''Autodetect subtitle files''' and name the subtitles in same as the movie (for example, '''my_movie.avi''' and '''my_movie.srt''').
 
This is known issue. It will be hopefully fixed in upcoming releases. Only solution is to either open subtitles from '''Use a subtitles file''' when you open file you want to watch or trust to '''Autodetect subtitle files''' and name the subtitles in same as the movie (for example, '''my_movie.avi''' and '''my_movie.srt''').
 +
 
===SSA and ASS subtitles look horrible and don't support all styles===
 
===SSA and ASS subtitles look horrible and don't support all styles===
 
This is known issue. Support should be better in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 
This is known issue. Support should be better in latest [http://nightlies.videolan.org/ Nightly builds].
 +
 
===Can I change font, font size, style or color?===
 
===Can I change font, font size, style or color?===
−
You can with text-based subtitle formats ([[Subtitles_codecs]]). Go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Video -> Subtitles/OSD -> Text renderer''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and adjust anything you want. '''Font size in pixels''' overrides '''Relative font size''' selection. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
+
You can with text-based subtitle formats ([[Subtitles codecs]]). Go to '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Video -> Subtitles/OSD -> Text renderer''' (remember to tick '''Advanced options''' box) and adjust anything you want. '''Font size in pixels''' overrides '''Relative font size''' selection. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
  
−
==General problems==
+
===How can I change subtitles text encoding?===
 +
If you see wrong characters on screen or '''failed to convert subtitle encoding''' error message you should try to change '''Subtitles text encoding''' option which can be found from '''Settings -> Preferences''' and '''Input / Codecs -> Other codecs -> Subtitles'''. Remember to press '''Save''' to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 +
 
 +
==General problems and issues==
 
===VLC crashes/freezes/BSODs my computer===
 
===VLC crashes/freezes/BSODs my computer===
 
VLC doesn't do that. Normal apps shouldn't be able to cause issues like these to operating systems. Culprit is usually bad device driver (for example display adapter driver, soundcard driver, chipset driver, network adapter driver etc.) or broken hardware.
 
VLC doesn't do that. Normal apps shouldn't be able to cause issues like these to operating systems. Culprit is usually bad device driver (for example display adapter driver, soundcard driver, chipset driver, network adapter driver etc.) or broken hardware.
 +
 
===How do I reset VLC settings?===
 
===How do I reset VLC settings?===
 
If you can start VLC, go to '''Settings -> Preferences...''' and then press '''Reset All''' and '''Save''' to reset and save VLC settings. Remember to restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
 
If you can start VLC, go to '''Settings -> Preferences...''' and then press '''Reset All''' and '''Save''' to reset and save VLC settings. Remember to restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.
  
 
If you can't start VLC, go to '''%appdata%''' folder and delete '''vlc''' folder from there.
 
If you can't start VLC, go to '''%appdata%''' folder and delete '''vlc''' folder from there.
 +
 
===VLC crashes on startup===
 
===VLC crashes on startup===
 
This usually happens because VLC setting files have been corrupted. Resetting VLC settings should fix this.
 
This usually happens because VLC setting files have been corrupted. Resetting VLC settings should fix this.
 +
 
===I messed up my file associations or I want to modify them===
 
===I messed up my file associations or I want to modify them===
−
Check [http://wiki.videolan.org/Windows#How_to_associate_media_files_to_VLC this].
+
Check out [[Windows#How to associate media files with VLC]].
 +
 
 +
===Can VLC burn CD, DVD, HD DVD or Blu-ray discs?===
 +
No.
 +
 
 +
===Is VLC legal in all countries?===
 +
Probably not. Specially DeCSS module might violate DMCA (and similar laws) and some codecs would require licenses for personal/commercial use. There haven't been any court cases related to VLC but specially companies should make sure they pay license fees to license holders if they use VLC commercially and use patented formats or codecs.
 +
 
 +
===Can I run multiple VLC instances?===
 +
Yes you can. [[VLC HowTo/Play multiple instances]]
 +
 
 +
===Can I start VLC instances synchronously?===
 +
Yes you can. Check this [http://forum.videolan.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=46110#p146010 thread (command line)] or this [http://forum.videolan.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=39832&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a#p124197 thread (GUI)].
 +
 
 +
===Latest VLC (0.8.6h) doesn't work with Windows Me/98/98se/95===
 +
This is known issue. You can either use 0.8.6f or take libwxwidgets.dll from 0.8.6f and copy it to 0.8.6h.
 +
{{Anchoring space}}

Latest revision as of 08:50, 20 January 2019

This page contains list of common questions and problems (FAQ aka Frequently asked questions) that Windows users have about VLC media player 0.8.6.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Windows users about VLC media player
WindowsFAQ-0.8.x, WindowsFAQ-0.9.x, WindowsFAQ-1.0.x, WindowsFAQ-1.1.x, WindowsFAQ-2.0.x, WindowsFAQ-2.1.x, WindowsFAQ-2.2.x
This page is obsolete and kept only for historical interest. It may document features that are obsolete, superseded, or irrelevant. Do not rely on the information here being up-to-date.

Contents

Video output related questions and problems

Why does VLC only give black, white or garbled video output?

Usually the problem lies in display adapter drivers. If you are too scared to update your display adapter drivers you can change VLC settings to make video work. If you are using Windows XP or older the easiest fix is usually to disable Overlay video output which can be found first opening Settings -> Preferences... and then choosing Video. After you have unticked the Overlay video output, press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled. Image about Overlay video output setting

If disabling Overlay video output doesn't help the next step is to change video output module. Open Settings -> Preferences... and then choosing Video -> Output module (remember to tick Advanced options box). There are multiple output modules you can use. For Windows XP and younger you can try DirectX 3D, DirectX, OpenGL and Windows GDI video output modules. With Windows Vista DirectX and Windows GDI output modules will disable Aero so if you want to use Aero, please use DirectX 3D (should be default). Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled. Image about video output modules setting

Direct3D video output is a bit blurry

This is known issue that has been fixed in latest Nightly builds.

Video shows green, blue or red lines

See VSG:Video:VisualErrors

How can I adjust brightness or contrast?

You can adjust brightness, contrast and other settings via Extend GUI. Open Settings -> Extend GUI to adjust these settings. Changes should show up realtime.

Can I set file specific brightness or contrast?

Yes, but it isn't that easy. You have to create VLC shortcut or bat file with proper settings. More info can be found from this thread

Audio output related questions and problems

Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies

If you hear some unwanted audio problems you can try another audio output module to see if that solves the issue. Open Settings -> Preferences... and then choosing Audio -> Output module (remember to tick Advanced options box). There are multiple output modules you can use for audio. DirectX and Win32 waveOut should work in most cases. Unfortunately there isn't an ASIO support in VLC.

Crackles, pops, hizzes and other audio anomalies with SPDIF passthrough

SPDIF passthrough of Dolby Digital (AC3) and DTS audiotracks don't work with all soundcards. Win32 waveOut output module should work better with SPDIF and you can also try latest Nightly builds with Win32 waveOut.

I don't hear dialog, conversations etc. while playing 5.1 audio

Make sure you have select proper speaker setup from Windows audio settings or from soundcard control panel. If you have done so, make sure VLC also has right settings. Audio -> Audio Device to select proper speaker settings.

How do I adjust audio delay?

During playback you can press Ctrl + k or Ctrl + l to adjust audio delay (adjust step is 50 ms).

(Graphical) user interface related questions and problems

How can I separate playback controls from playback window?

Go to Settings -> Preferences and Interface -> Main interfaces -> wxWidgets and untick Embed video in interface selection. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

How can I make skinned interface my default interface?

Go to Settings -> Preferences and Interface -> Main interfaces and from Interface module dropdown box select Skinnable Interface. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC

Current VLC Hotkeys feature doesn't support special mediakeys so you have to bind keys to regular keyboard keys. Latest Nightly builds support mediakeys.

My remote control, media keys or special input device can't control VLC (nightlies)

Make sure you disable other software that might capture those keys while you set those keys in VLC (for example Winamp may cause issues).

My VLC Equalizer settings aren't saved when I close VLC

This is known issue. There isn't any workaround for this in current stable releases.

Can I jump to certain time?

With stable builds only option is to use --start-time from command line when you start VLC. Nightly builds have new Playback -> Go to specific time... option in GUI.

How can I change UI language?

You can use Settings -> Preferences and Interface and select correct language from Language drop down list. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

Also you can use --language= from command line if you can't navigate with current language or you want to use batch files/scripts. for example: vlc --language=en to get English. Other options are auto, en, ar, pt_BR, en_GB, ca, zh_TW, cs, da, nl, fi, fr, gl, ka, de, he, hu, it, ja, ko, ms, oc, fa, pl, pt_PT, ro, ru, zh_CN, sr, sk, sl, es, sv, tr

Codec compatibility related questions and problems

How can I identify what codecs the file uses

With VLC, Open the file you want and open View -> Stream and Media Info and go to Advanced information tab.

VLC doesn't identify used codecs correctly or gives "undf" as codec or I want more information about specs

There are multiple video and audio identification tools, but one very useful is tool called Mediainfo.

H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback is too slow

You can speed up the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC playback by disabling loop filter for H.264 decoding. To do this go to Settings -> Preferences and Input / Codecs -> Other codecs -> FFmpeg (remember to tick Advanced options box) and in the drop-down box for Skip the loop filter for H.264 decoding change it to All. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

H.264/MPEG-4 AVC interlaced content crashes VLC (MBAFF and PAFF)

This is known issue. Current stable VLC versions don't support interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC content. Latest Nightly builds should support most interlaced H.264/MPEG-4 AVC videos.

No Real audio or Real video support

Current stable VLC doesn't play all Real video or audio codecs but support has gotten little better on latest Nightly builds.

Why can't VLC use CoreAVC, FFDshow, AC3filter, etc. codecs?

VLC only uses build in codecs so it doesn't support VfW or DirectShow APIs for codecs.

But you support DMO (Direct Media Object) module for WMV video and WMA audio

WMV and WMA are exceptions to this external codec support.

File and media format compatibility related questions and problems

Some DVD movies don't work at all or they crash/freeze to menu or playback

If you open DVD with DVD (menus) selection, try just plain DVD option (aka dvdsimple).

Some new DVD movies use copy protection mechanisms that VLC doesn't support. It might help if you rip that movie to hard drive using tools like DVDFab Decrypter or AnyDVD and use VLC to playback these files from hard drive.

DVD movies don't playback smooth (they stutter, lag, etc.)

One thing that might help is increasing the VLC DVD cache. This can be done from Settings -> Preferences and Input / Codecs -> Access Modules -> DVD with menus (or DVD without menus if you use dvdsimple method for playback) (remember to tick Advanced options box) and increase Caching value in MS value to for example to 5000 or to 20000. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

Can I play DVD files (VOB+IFO) from hard drive?

Yes you can. Use File -> Open Disc... and instead of DVD drive, point the location to correct folder by using customize field (Nightly build also has Browse... button). For example: dvd://"c:\movies\BLOOD DIAMOND\VIDEO_TS"

FLV (Flash Video) rewind doesn't work

This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest Nightly builds.

How do I handle the broken AVI files?

Some AVI files may give The AVI file is broken. Seeking not work correctly.Do you want to try to repair(this might take a long time) dialog. Those AVI files have some issues and you can try to fix those file temporarily with VLC or permanently with other tools. If you don't fix those files, seeking won't work correctly and those files may also crash players.

Can I always perform same repair action?

Yes you can. This can be done from Settings -> Preferences and Input / Codecs -> Demuxers -> AVI and select the wanted action from Force index creation dropdown box. Ask is default (it will always ask what you want to do). Always fix tries to always fix AVI files and Never fix always starts the playback without fixing. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

Can I fix those broken AVI files permanently?

Yes. You can try for example DivFix++ or Virtualdub for fixing. Virtualdub help.

Some MP4 or 3GP files don't have audio at all

If those files have AMR audio (usually ones from mobile phones) they won't work with current stable VLC versios. You can try latest Nightly builds to see if they work better with AMR audio.

MP4 and MKV rewind time is equal to system uptime

This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest Nightly builds.

Transport stream (TS and M2TS) files or Blu-ray files don't work

This is known issue. Some MPEG-2 only files work but H.264/MPEG-4 AVC or VC-1 inside guarantees failure.

No RA, RAM, RMVB support

Please see No Real audio or Real video support.

I have many MKV files in same folder and that seems to cause issues to VLC

This is known issue. It should be fixed in latest Nightly builds.

MOD files from my video camera don't work

This is known issue. There are currently two workarounds. Either change file extension from .mod to .mpg or remove libmod_plugin.dll file from vlc\plugins folder.

Is it safe to remove libmod_plugin.dll?

Yes it is. After removing libmod_plugin.dll you can't listen module music formats like MOD, S3M, XM etc. but nowadays most people don't listen those files at all. If you need to get MOD, S3M, XM etc. support back, then just extract libmod_plugin.dll back to vlc\plugins folder from VLC zip file.

Subtitles related questions and problems

How do I adjust subtitle delay?

During playback you can press Ctrl + h or Ctrl + j to adjust subtitle delay (adjust step is 50 ms).

How can I select right subtitle track?

If your video has multiple subtitle tracks, you can select the one you would like to see from Video -> Subtitles Track.

Can I disable hardcoded or "burned" subtitles with VLC?

No.

Dragging and dropping the subtitles to VLC disables pause

This is known issue. It will be hopefully fixed in upcoming releases. Only solution is to either open subtitles from Use a subtitles file when you open file you want to watch or trust to Autodetect subtitle files and name the subtitles in same as the movie (for example, my_movie.avi and my_movie.srt).

SSA and ASS subtitles look horrible and don't support all styles

This is known issue. Support should be better in latest Nightly builds.

Can I change font, font size, style or color?

You can with text-based subtitle formats (Subtitles codecs). Go to Settings -> Preferences and Video -> Subtitles/OSD -> Text renderer (remember to tick Advanced options box) and adjust anything you want. Font size in pixels overrides Relative font size selection. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

How can I change subtitles text encoding?

If you see wrong characters on screen or failed to convert subtitle encoding error message you should try to change Subtitles text encoding option which can be found from Settings -> Preferences and Input / Codecs -> Other codecs -> Subtitles. Remember to press Save to save VLC settings and restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

General problems and issues

VLC crashes/freezes/BSODs my computer

VLC doesn't do that. Normal apps shouldn't be able to cause issues like these to operating systems. Culprit is usually bad device driver (for example display adapter driver, soundcard driver, chipset driver, network adapter driver etc.) or broken hardware.

How do I reset VLC settings?

If you can start VLC, go to Settings -> Preferences... and then press Reset All and Save to reset and save VLC settings. Remember to restart VLC after that to make sure changes are enabled.

If you can't start VLC, go to %appdata% folder and delete vlc folder from there.

VLC crashes on startup

This usually happens because VLC setting files have been corrupted. Resetting VLC settings should fix this.

I messed up my file associations or I want to modify them

Check out Windows#How to associate media files with VLC.

Can VLC burn CD, DVD, HD DVD or Blu-ray discs?

No.

Is VLC legal in all countries?

Probably not. Specially DeCSS module might violate DMCA (and similar laws) and some codecs would require licenses for personal/commercial use. There haven't been any court cases related to VLC but specially companies should make sure they pay license fees to license holders if they use VLC commercially and use patented formats or codecs.

Can I run multiple VLC instances?

Yes you can. VLC HowTo/Play multiple instances

Can I start VLC instances synchronously?

Yes you can. Check this thread (command line) or this thread (GUI).

Latest VLC (0.8.6h) doesn't work with Windows Me/98/98se/95

This is known issue. You can either use 0.8.6f or take libwxwidgets.dll from 0.8.6f and copy it to 0.8.6h.














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