Adding a custom Codec to VLC

[leatonjo]

Hi,

I am looking at using VLC for an application that encodes video using an in-house developed custom Codec. Before I can start I have been asked how long integration of the new format into VLC would take. I have looked through the code and estimated 3 to 4 weeks (setting up the development environment, becoming familiar with VLC, implementing the new format using a close example etc.). Does this sound reasonable to those developers who have already been through this process? If not how much have I missed?

Thanks,
Lee

[Jean-Baptiste Kempf]

Well, this is too much to ask here. Noone knows.

If this is a video codec, probably you just need to built a module in modules/codec/ named new_module.c and make him call your decoder.

If the library for your codec isn't already existing then it might be bigger time.

It depends on the complexity of the whole codec.

You have to be under GPL-compatible license to do a codec in VLC.

[sfed]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but GPL only applies if you distribute or sell the application to a 3rd party. In-house commercial or personal use/modification is ok without disclosure of source, from my understanding of the GPL. For example, lots of companies have websites powered by GPL software with modifications, but do not have to disclose source because they do not distribute the code to 3rd parties. So if the purpose is to develop a tool to be used in-house encoding, that would still be ok, no?

[Jean-Baptiste Kempf]

"You HAVE to give the source code to your clients."

If you are your own client, your must give yourself the source