Apple TV Special Report: Translating video so it plays on the Apple TV

Not all video playable by iTunes can be played on the Apple TV. The Apple TV can only handle video in specific formats. To ensure video is compatible, translate it using one of the following tools:

• VisualHub
• QuickTime 7.1.5 (use the "Export to Apple TV" function)

Note that exporting video in the Apple TV-designated format can be a time-consuming process.

MacFixIt reader Michael Salesin writes:

"I have an iMovieHD file which is 1080i, runs about an hour and is 46GB. I converted it to a full copy quicktime file (.mov) which turned out to be 44.41 GB. i then converted that into a m4v file for the apple tv and that turned out to be 1.77 GB. the process on a Dual-processor G5 2.66 GHz machine took over 6 hours but the end result is really great. I haven't tried any 3rd party software to do the conversion."

Index:

• Available storage space
• Connecting the Apple TV through a Firewall
• Does not appear in/disappears from devices list in iTunes
• HDMI connection does not work -- fixes
• Hot to the touch -- reducing surface temperature
• Incorrect time setting
• Interference with wireless phones
• Internet connection fails
• iPhoto synchronization fails
• Knowledge Base documents (from Apple)
• Performing a factory restore
• Purchased media (iTunes Store movies, songs) not playing -- fixes
• Resolution difficulty
• Running diagnostics
• Slow transfer: Use Ethernet for synchronization
• Translating video so it plays on the Apple TV

Resources