If you've ever come across a DAV file and wondered how to open it, you're not alone. DAV files are commonly used in video surveillance systems, but they can be a bit tricky to play on your computer. Thankfully, with the help of VLC Media Player, you can easily open and watch DAV files with just a few simple steps.
What is a DAV file?
Before we dive into how to open DAV files, let's take a quick look at what they actually are. A DAV file is a video file format created by various DVR (Digital Video Recorder) manufacturers. It is used to store recorded surveillance video footage. DAV files typically contain both video and audio data and are widely used in the security industry.
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening DAV Files with VLC
Follow these straightforward instructions to open DAV files using VLC:
- First, download and install the latest version of VLC Media Player from the official website: https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
- Once VLC is installed, launch the program on your computer.
- In the VLC menu bar, click on "Media" and then select "Convert/Save" from the drop-down menu.
- In the "Open Media" window, click on the "Add" button and browse your computer to find the DAV file you want to open. Select the file and click on the "Open" button.
- Click on the "Convert/Save" button at the bottom of the window.
- In the "Convert" window, choose a destination folder where you want to save the converted video file.
- Under "Profile," select a video format that is easily playable by VLC, such as MP4.
- Click on the "Start" button to begin the conversion process.
- Once the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder and open the converted video file using VLC.
Why do I need to convert DAV files?
VLC is a versatile media player that supports a wide range of video formats. However, due to the nature of DAV files, they might not be directly playable with VLC. By converting the DAV file to a more universally compatible format, such as MP4, you ensure seamless playback on VLC and other media players.
Other options to open DAV files
In addition to VLC Media Player, there are other software options available to open DAV files. Some DVR manufacturers provide their own proprietary software for viewing DAV files, which you can download from their official websites. However, using VLC remains one of the simplest and most convenient methods to open DAV files, especially if you prefer a single media player for all your video needs.
If you come across a DAV file and want to open it, VLC Media Player is your go-to solution. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you'll be able to easily convert and play DAV files with VLC, ensuring compatibility and hassle-free viewing. Enjoy watching your surveillance footage effortlessly!