avi file won't play in win media

I downloaded a movie from http://www.diflix.com/ and tried to watch it in Windows Media Player 11. It is an .avi file and loaded fine but all that displayed was the current vizualization (bars/waves), no picture. I checked the box to play avi files. Any idea? Should I d/l quicktime (which I don't like)?

 

Download K-Lite codec pack:http://www.majorgeeks.com/K-Lite_Codec_Pack_Full_d4844.html
Install and see what will happen.

 

Don't install a codec pack, its an irresponsible and foolish thing to do. Codec packs are for fools who have to install everything because they don't know what they need. Instead download GSpot Codec Appliance and install that (I like the 252b version). Then from that point on its in your right click context menu. Right click the avi in question and "open with" GSpot and see what kind of avi it is, it will show on the top right. If its an Xvid file download the Koepi's Xvid (1.13 at this moment I believe) and install it. If its something else, post what you find.

Really basically the only codecs you need are xvid and divx unless you want to fool with other stuff like quicktime or real media (and for that theres the quicktime alternative and real media alternatives to choose). Anything else like strange audio or video codecs will usually be associated with another program (like dbPowerAmp Music Converter has codecs you can install for it). Codec packs can be dangerous if you have more than one of the same codec trying to compete with one another it can cause all kinds of problems. Codec packs should be used only by pros who know what they're doing or with great care. Always make sure the pack you choose is uninstallable.

 

Not sure I agree with that. I'd say they are for people who watch a lot of movies on their computers and don't want the hassel of locating individual codecs. It's not like they take up alot of room!

 

I found DivX which worked great! I'm gonna watch Advantage Point tonight Thanks for the input guys

 

on the subject of codec packs (yes, i think they are good too). I use CCCP codec pack:
http://www.cccp-project.net/ (not sure if it's available for download on majorgeeks.com )
there are also a few codec packs which are available for download
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?id=32

 

I'm sorry if I offended anyone, its just that I have read over and over again in the PC publications I subscribe to that codec packs cause more trouble than they're worth. And I am also sorry if its true that its an easy way out. Just a little searching and the use of video info tools will find you the best codec for the job and no extra crap to go along with it.

 

No probs!!

 

It's OK!!
But don't do that again.Here in MG when somebody need our help,first thing you must realize is that the people you want to help is 90% beginners in computer world.So simple solutions is always better for them.I know that G-Spot can solve the problem very fast,but for you and me,not for some guy or girl who doesn't even know were is start button.
BE COOL!!!
STAY COOL!!!

 

I am sorry but I will continue to advise people against installing codec packs, especially new people who don't know what they are doing. They happen to be the ones who need that advise the most. Instead of telling an uniformed person to install a codec pack you should be asking the right questions to determine what it is they need. Or at least steering them in the correct direction to be able to find out on there own. A wise man once said "give a person a fish and they eat that day, teach them to fish and they eat for life".