I am trying to convert HDV to SD DVD "the Jason Livingston way" (see http://dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=70792). After editing I export to AVI file type CFHD, but VirtualDub will not recognize the CineForm HD file, reporting "Couldn't locate decompressor for format 'CFHD' (unknown)."

I use Windows XP no service packs, Adobe Premiere Pro 1.5.1, VirtualDub 1.6.16 (also tested VirtualDub MPEG2 with identical results).

Any idea where the codec is located on the hard drive? Normally, video codecs are listed at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE_Software > Software > Microsoft > Windows NT > CurrentVersion > Drivers32 > vidc.dvsd, but I don't see the CFHD codec listed there, unless it's hiding under a different name...

Your help much appreciated,

CFHD.dll and CFHD.inf is installed within c:/Windows/system32, as you registry is not showing CFHD, you need to reinstall (right click on CFHD.inf and select install.)

Ummm... reinstall from where?

All I have is the free upgrade (1.5.1) to Adobe Premiere 1.5. Is this file present some place else on my PC?

Sorry, now I understand, CFHD.dll is a part of commerical product (Aspect HD) and it doesn't come with the free components included with Premiere Pro 1.5.1.

I'm a little perplexed why David Newman didn't mention that you can add CFHD to your system, so that it is recognized by virtualDub, simply by purchasing one of the Cineform products.

He was probably just trying to avoid looking like a salesman.

If you install the AspectHD trial, and then remove it, isn't the decompressor left behind as a freebie?

Graham, Yes you are correct if decoding is all that is required.