There is a simple and free way to convert video files to FLV flash video and display them on your web site or blog without the need for youtube. Your files will stay on your server and you'll have more control over how the videos are displayed. And... there are no ads.

Flash Videos

How to convert video to FLV

Here a simple way to convert video files to flv on the fly. By using this script, you’ll be able to right-click on the file name (avi or any other video format) and select “Send To” > “Convert to flv”.

Samples of videos converted to FLV

Here are some videos that I tool when I was in Afghanistan, converted to flv with this very script: Streets of Kabul, Afghanistan.

The script uses ffmpeg.exe (For more information see: http://ffdshow.faireal.net/mirror/ffmpeg/ ) which seems to be a standard for most media conversion software available out there.

The result files are optimised for use within blogs. I use this wordpress WP-FLV plugin that lets you display video files within your WordPress installation. You can download it form http://roel.meurders.nl/wordpress-plugins/wp-flv-video-player-plugin/

How does video to FLV conversion works?

1. Download the files, unzip and save somewhere on your computer (e.g., c:ffmpeg folder.)
2. Create a shortcut to the VBS file (right-click on ConvertAVI_FLV > Create shortcut) and drag it to the SendTo menu:
vista – C:Users-username-AppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindowsSendTo
xp – c:Documents and Settings-Username-SendTo

That’s it! You’re ready to go.

Download video to FLV conversion script

Download the files here – converttoflv.zip

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The review "Convert Video to FLV Flash Video" was last updated on 03/6/09.