MKV Files Explained

An MKV file is an audio / video container. It's similar to AVI and others but it has some other features. Before you use it, you should understand what it is.

What is an Audio Video Container?

A container is a format that can store audio or video files. Using the format, a user can burn (record) a movie onto a disc. This isn't the same thing as a codec. A codec is used by the video formats to play back videos.

Features

The format supports chapter entries and subtitle streams. It's extendable (in modular terms) and lets you choose audio streams. The MKV file also supports Web streaming. Using this format you can watch streaming video or audio. It also has a menu feature similar to what you see on DVDs.

Open Standard

This means the format can be used by anyone free of charge. It means that development by any person is allowed. Vendors that want to use it on their products can do so. The parsing is free. In other words, it is a free and cross platform container. Being open source, it can be an alternative to existing systems being used today.

Playing the File

Anytime you play back video with a player, it has to be decoded. In the case of an MKV file, the decoder might not be on your PC. If it isn't there, the file won't play. You need a codec.

However there are now video players online that support this format. Figuring this out is easy enough. When looking for players, just look for the supported formats. If it's listed, you won't have to look for a codec.

Codec Packs

You can download codec packs. As the name suggests, it's a collection of codecs. With this in your system, you won't have any problems playing back any file format.

There are potential problems here though. These packs come with scores of codecs. If there are too many, the player might get shaky. The packs also don't have the latest versions. If you install an old codec, it might not be able to play back the file. For some, it's better to just download the one that is needed.

DirectShow Players

You can play MKV files on DirectShow based apps if the right codes are used. If it doesn't play, you need to download the proper codec. If you use Windows' built in media player, remember that it is DirectShow based. If the file has RealVdieo components, it won't play on a DirectShow player. In this case you will have to download the player for RealVideo.

Things to Keep in Mind

Sooner or later you will come across a file that just won't play. If that's the case, try updating the player. If that doesn't work, just download another one. Most of them are freely available, so you have nothing to lose. Just make sure that the format is supported.

The MKV file can be used to play a large number of files. With support for this open source format growing, it's a good idea to have your media player ready for it.


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Please check out MKV files for more information about matroska files.