How do you play MPG and WMV files on a MAC?

Question

Level 1

8 points

How do you play MPG and WMV files on a MAC?

I am no longer able to play MPG and WMV files on my MAC. I have Flip4MAC, which is I think what I used to use to play them (but not sure). All I know is that I used to be able to before but now they won't play. Do I need some sort of different software or has Microsoft started making these files in a way that won't allow MAC users to play them? If anyone is kind enough to help, please explain in the most basic terms as I'm not that computer literate.

iMac G5 / MacBookPro C2D, Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Posted on Feb 11, 2007 12:36 PM

Reply

Answer 1

scapesuiter

Level 7

27,670 points

Feb 11, 2007 4:33 PM in response to octomonkee

If the .mpg/.mpeg files are non-rights-protected you should be able to play them in Quicktime or iTunes. If the wmv files are non-rights-protected you should be able to use Flip4Mac. If the mpg/mpeg or wmv files are rights-protected you'll need the software or subscription that allows you to view copyrighted files.

Reply

Answer 2

Feb 11, 2007 5:26 PM in response to octomonkee

QuickTime Player can be used to view MPEG-1 files.
Viewing MPEG-2 formats requires the MPEG-2 Playback Component ($20).
QuickTime Player has never supported WMP formats and you must use WMP for Mac (out of date) or Flip4Mac to view these (.wmv, .asp, .wma etc.) files in a browser or the stand alone Payer.

Reply

Answer 3

octomonkee Author

Level 1

8 points

Feb 11, 2007 5:39 PM in response to scapesuiter

The mpg clip I was trying to view is non-rights protected. It is a home movie clip which a family member sent me. I have Flip4Mac but it won't play with it. the error message I get is "Error - Movie could not open."

Is there something specific I need to do in Flip4Mac which will allow me to view it?

Reply

Answer 4

octomonkee Author

Level 1

8 points

Feb 11, 2007 5:40 PM in response to QuickTimeKirk

I have Flip4Mac but the mpg file (a non-protected file sent by a family member of their home movie) won't play with it. the error message I get is "Error - Movie could not open."

Is there something specific I need to do in Flip4Mac which will allow me to view it?

Reply

Answer 5

Feb 11, 2007 5:45 PM in response to octomonkee

Sounds like the file uses MPEG-2 formats.
As a test (if you only wish to view the file) try this free software:
http://www.videolan.org/vlc/

Reply

Answer 6

scapesuiter

Level 7

27,670 points

Feb 11, 2007 5:48 PM in response to octomonkee

Does the movie clip file have the .mpg extension attached to the file name? If so, you should be able to view it in QuickTime.

Reply

Answer 7

TopoTone

Level 4

1,356 points

Feb 12, 2007 6:19 PM in response to octomonkee

Make sure you have the most current Flip4Mac. Go to the F4M preferences and check under the update tab. There are a few things that F4M won't play...get VLC, as QT Kirk suggested...if nothing else works for that particular file you're trying to view.

Reply