VLC
Playing Audio and Video
Software name : VLC
Software version : 1.0.3
VLC supports a wide range of audio and video file formats including: MP3, WAV, AAC, MPEG, WMV, H.264, and Real Video, making it one of the most versatile media players out there. VLC can also play CDs, DVDs, and even network streams with ease.
This chapter focuses on two common tasks: playing audio and video files, and playing discs.
Let's take a look at the user interface in Windows 7:
VLC features a user-friendly interface with most standard playback options and more. With the Adjustments and Effects menu, you can adjust various audio and video settings such as brightness and contrast levels of video playback. VLC also includes a Playlist, where you can import individual files or an entire directory with various playback options.
Playing audio and video files
The easiest way to open audio and video files is the method of drag-and-drop directly into VLC.
In this example, we're opening a sample video of "Keyboard Cat." Both the video file and the icon to launch VLC are on the desktop. This particular video file is a .WMV file type, which is supported by VLC.
To drag-and-drop a file into VLC:
1. Hover the mouse pointer over the file.
2. Click and hold the left mouse button.
3. Still holding the left mouse button, move the pointer to the VLC icon and release the left mouse button.
The file begins playback.
Another method of opening an audio or video file is through the menu.
To open an audio or video file using the menu:
1. On the menu, click Media > Open File….
2. Browse to the directory of your desired file.
3. Double-click the file.
The file begins playback.
Similarly, a folder of multiple files can be opened for playback, such as an entire album.
To open a folder:
1. On the menu, click Media > Open Folder….
2. Browse to the directory of your desired folder.
3. Click on the folder, and then click OK.
The folder begins playback.
Playing a CD or DVD with VLC is nearly the same process as playing an audio or video file. While drag-and-drop can be used, the fastest method is using the menu. Before we begin, make sure your computer is capable of playing your specific disc. For example, playing a DVD requires at minimum a DVD-ROM drive installed on your computer.
To play a CD or DVD:
1. With a disc inserted into the drive, click Media > Open Disc…
The Disc tab is now selected from the Open Media window.
2. Select your disc type from the Disc Selection menu.
3. In the Disc device box, make sure the correct drive is selected (the drive reading the disc). By default, VLC selects the most common drive, but you may need to browse and select it.
4. Click the Play button.
The CD or DVD opens and begins playback.
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