Frequently Asked Questions - K-Lite Codec Pack FAQ

This comprehensive FAQ section addresses the most frequently asked questions about K-Lite Codec Pack, installation, configuration, playback issues, and troubleshooting. Whether you're a first-time user or an experienced user looking for specific information, you'll find answers to common questions and solutions to many common problems here.

The FAQ is organized by topic to make it easy to find the information you need. Topics include general questions, installation issues, playback problems, configuration options, subtitle handling, Media Player Classic questions, and troubleshooting guides. If you can't find the answer to your question here, please visit the support forum where you can get help from experienced users and the development team.

General

What are codecs?

Codecs are software components that are used to encode and decode audio and video formats. They allow media players to play different types of audio and video files. The K-Lite Codec Pack includes codecs for many popular formats.

Installation

Do I need to uninstall my old version first?

No, you don't need to uninstall the old version first. The installer will automatically update your existing installation. However, it's always recommended to close all media players before installing or updating.

Is it possible to do a silent or unattended install?

Yes, the K-Lite Codec Pack supports silent installation. You can use command-line parameters for unattended deployment. Please refer to the installer's help documentation for more details.

Is there an uninstaller included?

Yes, the K-Lite Codec Pack includes a comprehensive uninstaller that will remove all components that were installed by the pack, including all registry keys. The uninstaller can be found in the Windows Control Panel under "Programs and Features".

Playback Issues

I can't play a certain video file

First, make sure you have installed the Standard or Full variant of the codec pack, as these include the most comprehensive set of codecs. If the file still doesn't play, the file format might not be supported, or the file might be corrupted. Try playing the file with MPC-HC (which is included in the Standard/Full variants) as it provides better error messages.

The video stutters and does not play smoothly

This can be caused by several factors: CPU performance, codec settings, or hardware acceleration settings. Try enabling hardware acceleration in the codec settings if your system supports it. You can also try using a different video renderer (e.g., madVR if you have the Full variant installed).

The video is not synchronized with the audio

Audio/video sync issues can be caused by various factors. Try adjusting the audio delay in MPC-HC (shortcuts: '+' or '-' keys) or in the audio codec settings. If the problem persists, try using a different splitter or decoder.

Configuration

Where can I configure the options of the various components?

You can configure the codec pack components using the Codec Tweak Tool, which is included in all variants. You can also access individual codec configuration dialogs through the Windows Control Panel or by using the codec's system tray icon (if available).

How can I switch to a different audio track or subtitle language?

In MPC-HC, you can switch audio tracks and subtitles using the menu: Play → Audio → Audio Track, or Play → Subtitles → Subtitle Track. You can also use keyboard shortcuts (check MPC-HC's help for details).

Media Player Classic

How can I see which codecs and DirectShow filters MPC is using?

In MPC-HC, go to Play → Filters, or press Ctrl+3. This will show you a list of all filters and codecs currently being used to play the active file.

No video is displayed when playing a DVD

DVD playback requires proper DVD navigation support. Make sure you have selected a compatible video renderer in MPC-HC's options. Also, make sure your graphics drivers are up to date.

Subtitles

How do I make the subtitles load and display automatically?

Subtitles will load automatically if they have the same filename as the video file (except for the extension). For example: video.avi and video.srt. You can configure subtitle loading behavior in DirectVobSub settings or in MPC-HC's subtitle options.

Subtitles are not displayed

Make sure DirectVobSub is installed and enabled. Check the DirectVobSub configuration (usually accessible via system tray icon or Control Panel). Also, make sure the subtitle file is in a supported format (SRT, ASS, SSA, SUB, etc.).

Troubleshooting

How can I find out which component is causing a problem?

You can use the Codec Tweak Tool to disable specific codecs or filters temporarily to identify which component is causing the issue. You can also use MPC-HC's Filter menu to see which components are being used for playback.

How can I remove broken codecs?

The K-Lite Codec Pack installer includes a codec detection feature that can identify and fix broken codecs. When you run the installer, it will automatically check for problematic codecs and offer to fix them.

Note: For more detailed troubleshooting, please visit the support forum where you can get help from experienced users and the development team.