Understanding Video Codecs in NowSignage
What Are Video Codecs?
A video codec (short for coder-decoder) is the technology used to compress and decompress video files.
When you upload a video to the NowSignage platform, the selected codec determines how the video is encoded for playback. The codec directly impacts video quality, file size, performance, and device compatibility.
Video codecs perform two key functions:
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Encoding (Compression): Reduces file size by removing redundant or unnecessary data.
-
Decoding (Decompression): Converts the compressed file back into a viewable video during playback.
In digital signage environments, codecs are especially important. They ensure high-quality playback while keeping file sizes manageable and enabling smooth performance, even on devices with limited processing power.
Why Codecs Matter in NowSignage
NowSignage delivers content across a wide range of hardware platforms, operating systems, and screen resolutions. Selecting the correct codec ensures:
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Smooth video playback
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Reduced buffering and stuttering
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Maximum compatibility with signage hardware
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Efficient use of network bandwidth and device resources
Using an unsupported or inefficient codec can result in playback failures, green screens, black screens, or poor performance.
Supported Video Codecs in NowSignage
|
Codec |
Description |
Supported Resolutions |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
VP8 (4K VP8) |
Open-source codec with good compression and broad compatibility |
Up to 4K (Ultra HD) |
Ideal for web-based and HTML5 content |
|
VP9 (4K VP9) |
Enhanced version of VP8 with better compression and visual quality at lower bitrates |
Up to 4K (Ultra HD) |
Excellent for high-resolution streaming and YouTube-hosted videos |
|
H.264 |
Most widely supported video codec worldwide |
Up to 1080p |
Recommended for general digital signage content |
|
H.265 (4K H.265 / HEVC) |
Successor to H.264 offering up to 50% better compression at the same quality |
Up to 4K (Ultra HD) |
Best choice for 4K playback on modern hardware |
Supported Hardware and Known Codec Support
(Guidance only — always verify codec support against manufacturer specifications)
|
Platform / Device |
Supported Codecs / Notes |
|---|---|
|
BrightSign Series 3, 4 & 5 |
Series 4 & 5 support VP9 for NowSignage playback. Hardware also supports H.264 and H.265 for 4K |
|
Android (General) |
VP9 recommended; H.264 and H.265 supported depending on hardware |
|
Android 11 (Portrait Mode) |
VP8 must be used |
|
Windows 10 & 11 |
H.264, VP8, and VP9 depending on GPU driver support |
|
macOS |
Native support for H.264 and H.265; VP9 available on newer hardware and browsers |
|
LG webOS Signage |
H.264 and H.265 hardware decoding; VP9 on webOS 6 and later |
|
Sony SoC Displays |
H.264, H.265, and VP9 (varies by Android SoC model) |
|
Samsung Tizen SoC (All Models) |
H.264 and H.265 |
|
Giada (Android) |
VP9, H.264, and H.265 depending on device hardware |
|
AllSee (Android 7.1 SoC) |
H.264 only |
|
Linux Devices |
H.264, H.265, VP8, and VP9 depending on GPU and driver support |
|
Philips SoC Displays |
H.264 and H.265; VP9 supported on newer Android 11–based models |
Which Codec Should You Choose for Your NowSignage Project?
By default, new NowSignage projects use the VP9 codec. You can change the codec at any time and even apply different codecs at:
-
Project level
-
Folder level
-
Individual screen level
Multi-codec support within projects: https://knowledgebase.nowsignage.com/multi-codec-support-within-projects
Best Practice Guidance
-
Always confirm codec compatibility using the device specification sheet or directly with the hardware manufacturer.
-
Mixed hardware environments often require multiple codecs to ensure full compatibility.
Tip: Viewing Available Codecs in the CMS
You can view which codecs are available for your videos directly in the Content Dashboard:
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Go to Content Dashboard
-
Click the Table Settings icon
-
Enable the Video Codec column
This makes it easier to identify which codecs are already available for each video.
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Common Playback Issues
|
Symptom |
Possible Cause |
Resolution |
|---|---|---|
|
Video does not play or screen turns green |
Unsupported codec or corrupted file |
Re-encode using VP8, VP9, H.264, or H.265 |
|
Black screen or freezing |
Encoding profile mismatch |
Re-encode using a supported codec |
Q: I have a mixed hardware estate with different codec requirements. What is the best approach?
A: For mixed hardware environments, create separate folders within your Screens area, each configured with a specific codec. Place screens into the appropriate folder or create them directly within it.
When you upload content, NowSignage automatically detects that multiple codecs are required and processes the same video into each specified codec. This ensures compatibility across all devices without duplicating workflows.
Q: What if my existing content is in one codec but I need to switch or support multiple codecs?
A: If your content is already uploaded in one codec (for example, VP9) and you need to change the project codec (for example, to H.264):
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Update the project codec setting.
-
Re-upload the video content so it can be processed in the new codec.
-
Update playlists by replacing old items with the newly encoded versions.
If only a specific screen requires a different codec due to hardware limitations, set the codec at the screen level and re-upload the content for that screen.
If multiple codecs are available for a video, they will appear in the Content Dashboard. If a codec is not listed, the video must be re-uploaded to generate it.
Summary
Video codecs are a critical part of reliable digital signage playback. By selecting the correct codec based on your hardware and project requirements, you ensure smooth playback, optimal quality, and maximum compatibility across your NowSignage network.