Knowledge Base

Problem

A video file recorded outside of DanioScope (e.g., from a smartphone or non-standard camera) cannot be opened in DanioScope or on the user's computer, and conversion attempts fail.

Details

Occurs when the source video does not meet DanioScope's encoding, resolution, or format requirements. Conversion tools (e.g., Format Factory) may produce files that still fail to import if the encoding parameters (codec, bitrate, resolution, frame rate) are not set correctly. Affects any DanioScope version when ingesting externally recorded video. Even DanioScope sample videos may fail to open if the host system lacks required codecs.

Solution

1. Identify the target video specifications required by DanioScope: recommended formats include AVI or MP4, with a standard frame rate (e.g., 25 fps) and a resolution appropriate to the well-plate configuration being analyzed.
2. Use a video conversion tool (e.g., Format Factory, HandBrake, or FFmpeg) and configure the following parameters precisely as advised by Noldus support:
- Codec: H.264 (for MP4) or an uncompressed/MJPEG codec (for AVI)
- Resolution: match the resolution recommended for the plate type (e.g., 1920×1080 or lower, avoiding non-standard aspect ratios)
- Frame rate: 25 fps or the frame rate specified in your DanioScope protocol
- Bit rate: use a standard, moderate bit rate rather than auto or very high settings
3. Re-attempt the conversion with the corrected parameters.
4. Import the converted file into DanioScope and verify it loads correctly.
5. If problems persist, contact Noldus support and provide the original file's metadata (codec, resolution, frame rate, container format) so that encoding parameters can be specified precisely.