Perian is an open source (donations sought) package of extremely useful codecs for QuickTime that is a must download for any video professional. The Perian component will enable your QuickTime engine to handle files in the following formats: AVI, DIVX, FLV, MKV, GVI, VP6, and VFW Supported video types include: MS-MPEG4 v1 & v2, DivX, 3ivx, Fraps, Snow, NuppelVideo, Techsmith Screen Capture, DosBox Capture and others. Numerous audio codecs are also included.

Naturally, since these codecs are installed via the QuickTime codec system, they are available to all apps that export files via QT (such as FCP). Along with Flip4Mac, this is a must-have QT upgrade. I love how this lets me use my QT player as an .flv player which is great for my workflow.

If you’re using the Creative Vado HD Pocket Camcorder, this is the software you’ll need to install to use the files on a Mac.

Tags: app, mac, quicktime, codec