Storing Audio and Video

The audio or video source consists of a media file and (optionally) a transcript. The media file can be:

No matter where you choose to store the file, you can still code, annotate and work with the source in the same way.

Benefits of Embedding Media Files

Media files embedded in a project become part of the project—if you move your project file (.nvp), the embedded media files go too.

Media files stored outside of your project are referenced within the project but are not part of it —if you send your project to a colleague you will need to include the media files separately.  

Also, if you move externally stored media files to a new location (using the Windows file system), you will need to update the location in your NVivo project. Refer to Moving Media Files for more information.

Why Store Media Files Externally?

Embedding large media files (over 20MB) may impact on the performance of your NVivo project.

If you store large media files externally, you can analyze as much media as your computer can accommodate—without jeopardizing project performance.

Alternatively, you can store your media files on a network server. Note: When you are not connected to the server you cannot access the media content, but—if you choose to 'work disconnected'—you can still open the audio or video source and work with the transcript.  Refer to Working without Your Media Content for more information.

Select the File Storage Option for an Audio or Video Source

To choose whether a selected media file is embedded or stored externally:

  1. In Navigation View, click the Internals folder.

  2. In List View, click the required source.

  3. On the Project menu, click <Audio/Video> Properties. Option name depends on the type of media you have selected.

The <Audio/Video>Properties dialog box is displayed.

  1. Click the <Audio/Video> tab.

  2. If the media content is stored in a file outside NVivo and you want to embed it within the NVivo project, click the Embedded in project option.

  3. If the media content is already embedded within NVivo and you want to store it in a file outside of the project, click Not embedded— file location:

  4. ClickBrowse to select a folder to store a previously embedded file in, or select a file to store its path in the source.

  5. Click OK.

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