How to Troubleshoot MP4 Sync Problems

Digital videos that are encoded with the MPEG-4 compression standard are released as MP4 files. The MP4 format is a multimedia container that is designed to consolidate multiple streams of media into one file. An MP4 file's audio and video streams can be encoded with a variety of codecs. A codec is a digitization scheme that is used to encrypt and read data. If an MP4 file's audio and video tracks are not synchronized, a codec issue is usually to blame. But if users have verified that their computer is equipped with all the necessary codecs to enable the proper playback of MP4 files, then they should evaluate their media player. But if the tracks are not synchronized after all of the potential problems have been ruled out, then it is likely that the MPEG-4 video was either not encoded properly or got damaged.

• 1

  Analyze the MP4 file in a codec identification program. The computer may not be equipped with the codecs that are required to properly stream the media. Free applications like GSpot or VideoInspector can be used to perform this task. But in addition to analyzing files, VideoInspector alerts users to missing codecs and guides them on how to set up the required packages on their systems.

• 2

  Investigate the media player's playback settings. The program may have been modified to stream audio and video tracks at different rates. There is also a chance that a timing offset is contributing to synchronicity issues. Restore the media player's default playback settings and attempt to stream the MPEG-4 video again.

• 3

  Update the media player. A software glitch may be preventing the tracks in the MP4 file from syncing properly. Developers often resolve bugs and performance issues by releasing updated versions of the program.

• 4

  Open the MP4 file in different media players. The primary application that is being used to play the MPEG-4 video may not be able to support one of the file's codecs. In addition to Apple QuickTime and iTunes, MP4 files can be loaded into media players like VideoLAN VLC, GOM Player and Zoom Player.