An MKV file is a container for audio / video. It is similar to AVI and others, but has several other features. Before using, you have to understand what it is.
Audio Video What is a container?
A container is a format that can store audio or video. Use the format, the user can write (record) a movie on a disc. This is not the same as a codec. A codec is used for video formats to read videos.
Features
The Input format support chapters and subtitles. It is extensible (modular in terms) and you can select audio streams. The MKV file also supports streaming Web. Using this format you can watch streaming video or audio. It also has a menu function similar to what you see on DVD.
Open Standard
This means that the format can be used by anyone for free. This development means that it allows any person. Vendors who wish to use their products can do. The analysis is free. In other words, is a free multi platform container. Being open source, can be an alternative to existing systems used today.
Playing file
Each time you play the video with a player it must be decoded. In the case of an MKV file, the decoder can not be on your PC. Please exists, the file will not play. You need a codec.
But now there are online video players that support this format. Determine what is enough easy. In the search for players, just look for the formats supported. If present, you will not find a codec.
Codec Pack
You you can download codec packs. As its name implies, is a collection of codecs. With this in your system, you will have no problem reading any file format.
There are potential problems here though. These packages come with dozens of codecs. If there is too often the player can get brittle. Packages are not the latest versions. If you install an older codec may not be able to read the file. For some it is just a download is necessary.
The DirectShow players
You can read MKV files in DirectShow based Apps if you use the correct code. If he does not play, you must download the appropriate codec. If you use Windows media player, remember that is based on DirectShow. If the file has RealVdieo elements, will not play on a unit of DirectShow. In this case, you must download RealVideo player.
Things to remember
Sooner or later encounters a file that just will not play. If so, try update the player. If this fails, simply download another. Most of them are available for free, you have nothing to lose. Make sure it is compatible format.
The MKV file can be used to play a lot of files. With the support of this open source format, increasingly, is a good idea to have your media player ready.
Please check out MKV files for more information about matroska files.
