BackVideo (Experiment File)

QuickInfo

Display a video in the background as the current file is presented.

Value

MediaLab will play most video files that are supported by the Windows Media Player.

Purpose

In the experiment editor, the file types that support backvideos are image files, and Word documents. If you would like a video played in the background simply type in the name of the video file in this field.

Advanced Hints

You can specify the location and size of the backvideo in the same way as you do for a primary image using parameter values.

By default, the backvideo will be centered on the screen and play at its encoded size. To specify the location of the backvideo, use the top and left parameters. For backvideos, place the parameters in parentheses after the file name. For example, myvideo.bmp (t50,l200) will place the backvideo 50 pixels from the top and 200 pixel from the left. To specify the size of the backvideo, use the width parameter (the height will automatically be adjusted proportionally). For example, myvideo.bmp (w640) will play the video at a resolution of 640x480 pixels. A number of special width values are also available (e.g., quarter screen, half screen, full screen). See parameters for more detail.

Note that MediaLab uses the Windows Media Player for its video playback engine. If you check the Use Enhanced Video option under Preferences, MediaLab will use an alternate custom engine that may provide playback for some formats that can not be handled by WMP (e.g., some QuickTime and Real video formats). In general, it is recommended to NOT use this option unless you have to. If you do choose to try this option, it  is best to have the latest versions of QuickTime and/or Real Player also installed on your system.