How to Convert MOV Files

Apple's MOV files for video play on both Macintosh computers and PCs. Among the major media players available, however, only Apple's QuickTime Player supports the MOV format. Most MP3 players cannot load MOV files. If you have a movie file with a .mov extension that you'd like to make more widely compatible with media devices and computer programs, follow these steps to convert your MOV file into a more recognizable format, such as AVI or MPG.

Instructions

1. Go to media-convert.com, a free online converter site (see Resources). The Media-Convert converter handles many types of movie file conversions. It can convert MOV files into several different file types, including AVI, MPG and OGG.

2. Add the MOV file to the converter. To do this, click the "Browse" button. A search box will come up, allowing you to search for the MOV file on your computer. When you locate it, click "Open." The "Input format" box should automatically list MOV as the file type.

3. Choose an output format. You have two boxes full of video options from which to choose. If you will be using the file in one particular device, select a preset from the first box, such as "DVD NTSC" or "IPOD." To use the file in several programs and devices, select "No video preset" in the first box. The second box lists different video file types. Select the type of your choice from this box.

4. Rename the output file. Use the "Rename file to" box under "Advanced settings." If you choose not to rename the file, Media-Convert will create a movie file with the same name as the original MOV file.

5. Click the "OK" button to start converting. The screen will display your conversion status as a percentage. When the conversion finishes, you will be directed to a link to download the file. Click the link and select "Save as." Save the file to your computer.

References

• MOV File information

Resources

• Media-Convert