Adding additional settings and presets, Understanding codecs, Quicktime video codecs – Apple Compressor 2 User Manual
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Chapter 12
Creating QuickTime Movie Output Files
Note: If you encode a QuickTime output file with a source file that contains timecode,
the source timecode is added to the QuickTime output file.
Understanding Codecs
Codec stands for compressor (CO)/decompressor (DEC) pairs. You use different codecs for
different playback methods (such as the web or CD-ROM). Once you know the playback
method of your target audience, you can pick a suitable codec. To decide which codec
is right for your needs, you must choose the necessary level of compression to meet
your data rate limits and the level of quality you want.
The following sections discuss issues to be aware of when selecting a video or
audio codec.
QuickTime Video Codecs
Each codec offers advantages and disadvantages. Some are more appropriate for
storing certain types of media; others introduce more artifacts. Some compress slowly
and decompress quickly, while others compress and decompress at the same speed.
Some codecs can compress a file to 1/100th of its original size, while others decrease
the file size very little. Some codecs are only available on specific operating system
platforms, some require a particular processor, and some require a minimum version of
QuickTime for playback.
When choosing a codec you should consider the following:
 Minimum system requirements of your target audience
 Source material
 Quality of the compressed media file
 Size of the compressed media file
 Compression/decompression time for the media file
 If the media file will be streamed
Adding Additional Settings and Presets
Although the output format setting is the most important component of the
Compressor workflow, you can also add other settings and presets, such as filters,
cropping, frame sizing, actions, and destinations. For further instructions on how to
add these settings, see the following:
Adding Frame Controls, Geometry, and Actions to a Setting