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Thoubleshooting

4. Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Video Won’t Open:
  • Cause: The video might be copy-protected (e.g., some DVDs or files downloaded from streaming services).
  • Fix: Try a different video file or export edited videos (e.g., from iMovie) to a supported format before using HandBrake.
  • Conversion is Slow:
  • Cause: Long or high-quality videos take more time to convert, especially on slower computers.
  • Fix: Use a “Fast” preset (e.g., Fast 1080p30) or ensure your computer has a good graphics card (GPU) for faster processing.
  • No Sound:
  • Cause: An audio track may not be selected.
  • Fix: Go to the Audio tab and ensure at least one audio track is selected (usually automatic with presets).
  • File Too Big or Too Small:
  • Cause: The quality setting (RF number) affects file size.
  • Fix: Adjust the RF slider in the Video tab—lower RF (e.g., 18–20) for better quality and larger files, higher RF (e.g., 24–26) for smaller files with lower quality.
  • HandBrake Won’t Open:
  • Cause: Installation issues or security restrictions.
  • Fix:
    • Windows: Reinstall HandBrake and ensure Microsoft .NET 8.0 is installed.
    • macOS: If blocked, right-click the HandBrake icon in Applications and select “Open.”
    • Linux: Reinstall via your app store or Flatpak instructions at https://flathub.org/apps/fr.handbrake.ghb.