Convert SUB_MICRODVD Subtitles to SMI Format
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About SUB_MICRODVD
MicroDVD is a frame-based subtitle format, which means its timings are based on video frame numbers rather than timestamps. For example, a line might be defined to appear from frame 1000 to frame 1050. This can be very precise, but it also means the subtitle file is tied to a specific video file with a specific frame rate. If the frame rate changes, the subtitle timing will be incorrect.
About SMI
SMI or SAMI (Synchronized Accessible Media Interchange) is a format developed by Microsoft for subtitles in Windows Media Player. It uses an HTML-like syntax, which allows for basic styling and formatting of the subtitle text. It also has features for including multiple language tracks in a single file. Its usage has declined significantly with the wane of Windows Media Player.
SUB_MICRODVD vs SMI
| Feature | SUB_MICRODVD | SMI |
|---|---|---|
| Styling Support | false | true |
| Positioning Support | false | true |
| Animation Support | false | false |
| Learning Curve | intermediate | intermediate |
| Quality Rating | 2 | 3 |
| Patent Status | freeware | proprietary |
| Year Introduced | 1999 | 1998 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use frame numbers instead of time?
Frame-based timing can be very useful for video editors who work on a frame-by-frame basis. However, for general distribution and playback, time-based formats like SRT are much more flexible and reliable, as they are not dependent on the video's frame rate.
What happens if I use a MicroDVD file with the wrong frame rate video?
The subtitles will go out of sync. For example, if the subtitle file was created for a 25 fps video, but you play it with a 29.97 fps video, the subtitles will appear progressively earlier or later as the video plays.
Is SMI still used?
SMI is largely considered a legacy format. While it was popular in the early 2000s, especially in some Asian markets, its proprietary nature and the rise of open standards like VTT have made it uncommon for modern content.
What are the advantages of SMI?
Its main historical advantage was its ability to include multiple languages in one file and its use of familiar HTML-like tags for styling, which was accessible to web developers at the time. However, modern formats have surpassed its capabilities.
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