QuickTime Problems With XP

Sometimes you can be ready to watch a video file, but QuickTime simply isn't. The Apple-designed program requires at least a 233-MHz Pentium-class processor or better, and at least 128MB of RAM, but Windows XP users may also need to do some technical tweaking.

Streaming Behind Firewall

Firewalls are a common problem for XP QuickTime users. Firewalls can affect online streaming video content, especially if there's a router between the PC and the Internet. Two ways to fix this problem are to make sure "Auto Configure" is selected under QuickTime preferences and that Port 80 is used.

Apple Troubleshooting Test

A plug-in problem could lead to QuickTime complications for XP users. Apple offers troubleshooting tips for the QuickTime plug-in on its support website. If the sample support site video won't play, some users have fixed the problem by reinstalling the plug-in.

Use Latest QuickTime Version

Using an updated version of QuickTime can help give XP users a starting point for their video problem. An update may even solve the problem completely. Outdated versions of the software can cause extension conflicts and even system vulnerability to computer hackers. Users can check under "About" on the QuickTime menu, and make sure this number matches the latest version available at the QuickTime website.

Video File Test

XP users may sometimes find that the problem is not with QuickTime, but with a damaged video file. Make sure the selected media file type is supported by QuickTime. XP meets the minimum standards for running QuickTime, but your computer's audio and video drivers may be out of date.

Update Codec

Running the latest version of Direct X will help XP users determine if they have a codec issue. The codec decodes the digital signal of the file. To test for file extension conflicts, which could be caused by an outdated codec, XP users can try running the computer in safe mode and starting up QuickTime. This can help resolve issues for XP users who may have other applications running in the background.

References

• Academic Computing and Media California State University, San Bernardino: Problem Report-Video Streaming
• Apple : QuickTime: How to Troubleshoot the Web Browser Plug-In
• Columbia CNMTL : Using QuickTime in Windows
• United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team: National Cyber Alert System
• Apple : Quicktime: Windows Troubleshooting Tips
• University of Mississippi: Troubleshooting QuickTime Streaming

Resources

• Duke Office of Information Technology: Video Conferencing FAQ