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Video files can be too large to upload, when this happens one possible solution is to create a new smaller version, which requires 'transcoding' the video from one 'encoding profile' to another (see the novice guide for one way how to do that).

Video File Size Problems

If your video file is too big then you may experience issues with slow upload, exceeding allowable upload size, or stuttering during playback.

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Video File Size Factors

Video file sizes are a function of duration x data rate.

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Needless to say, there are significant differences between 15, 56, and 750.

Step-by-step guide

1. Download https://handbrake.fr/
2. Install (double click downloaded file)
3. Run (double click application icon)
4. Open Original Video File (click Open Source)
5. Select Preset (click presets on right hand side) OR Import UoN Preset (download linked file, click cog beneath presets and select import, then click on preset name)
6. Set Output Name and Location (click Browse next to Destination)
7. Click Start
8. Watch Progress Bar Finish
9. Check Output File Size and Playback
10. If the resultant file is too big return to step 5 and try increasing the RF number (Reduction Factor) e.g. 28.

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Encoding Profile Settings

You will notice the transcoding software has numerous parameters, if you are interested to learn what they do then start with the Wikipedia page for video, move on to video codecs, and then read the Handbrake documentation.

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Within the above guide, the key variable for changing the data rate is "RF" which you can increase to generate a smaller file size (or vice versa to potentially improve image quality).

Further Solutions

If you are experiencing issues uploading your video submission after following the above process then you may have issues with your source material, internet connection, or playback device.

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If issues persists, make a note of your fault finding attempts (the above eliminations) and seek technical support.

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