Cinepak

Action Plan: Quicktime File Format - Cinepak

Last Updated 2/4/2014

A multimedia container file which can contain audio, video, effects and subtitles. A proprietary Apple, Inc. format with specifications available here, it is made up "atoms," the basic unit of data comprising a QuickTime file. The MPEG-4 file format is often described as having evolved from the second version of the QuickTime File Format (QTFF).

Codec:  This codec combines a Cinepak video bitstream with audio. It was a heavily-used encoding for early versions of QuickTime and Microsoft Video for Windows. It is generally still usable with modern video players.

Software:  Apple Quicktime Pro is used for saving or converting individual QTFF files. .Mov files can be played with VLC media player , iTunes , Windows Media Player and many others. MediaInfo is useful for identification of codecs and file characteristics.

Long Term Preservation Plan: The Quicktime File Format is a proprietary format with an open, public specification. While still widely used, there are signs that it is being overtaken in popularity by file wrappers such as MPEG-4. The format remains popular and every major browser can support it. Migration is not at present recommended, however some files may require older versions of quicktime to play. Check the MediaInfo report to determine what version was used initially as a guide. Many unplayable files can be viewed using VLC media player.

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