Video Transcoder Utility

Video Transcoder Utility is a comprehensive Windows application designed to automate video transcoding efficiently. This utility enables users to schedule bulk video conversions using HandBrake, while also offering the capability to extract subtitles via FFmpeg—all powered by a silent Windows service that runs in the background.

Key Features

• Scheduled Processing: Define specific time windows and days for transcoding tasks, ensuring videos are processed at your convenience.
• Folder Monitoring: Automatically transcode videos found in specified directories, streamlining the workflow.
• Smart History Tracking: Prevents duplicate processing of the same video files, optimizing resource use.
• Subtitle Extraction: Quickly extract and convert subtitles to SRT format, enhancing the accessibility of video content.
• Missing Subtitle Download: Automatically find and download missing subtitles using video hashes, simplifying the integration of captions.
• Real-time Progress Tracking: Monitor the transcoding progress with detailed statistics and visual feedback.
• Flexible Configuration: Customize HandBrake parameters to suit various transcoding requirements.
• Automatic Logging: Keep detailed logs of operations, with automated rotation to manage disk space effectively.

How It Works

The Video Transcoder Utility operates as a Windows service, which continuously monitors designated folders for new video files. It transcodes the videos according to predefined schedules, while keeping track of completed tasks to ensure that videos are not processed multiple times. The service can also manage subtitle extraction, allowing users to maintain a well-organized library.

Example Usage

Users can easily set up monitored directories and configure output preferences:

# Add Monitored Directories
Open Settings tab → Add Directory → Select folder containing videos

# Set HandBrake Parameters
Example: `--encoder x265 --quality 22 --all-audio --all-subtitles`

# Configure Schedule
Set the hours for processing (e.g., 10 PM - 6 AM) to work seamlessly with nightly workflows.

• Settings Configuration: Manage directories and parameters effortlessly.
• Real-time Progress Tracking: Keep an eye on the ongoing transcoding with live updates.
• History Management: View and manage previously transcoded files to maintain order in your library.
• Service Logs: Access detailed logs from HandBrake and FFmpeg for monitoring and troubleshooting.

Performance Considerations

While the service is resource-efficient, scheduling transcoding tasks during off-peak hours is advisable to minimize impact on system performance, especially since HandBrake can be CPU-intensive.

For further details, troubleshooting, and contribution opportunities, please visit the GitHub repository.