[MacDV] Why is "MPEG-2 Playback Component" needed?

[Nick Scalise]

> From: Aaron <macuser at aarons.fastmail.fm>
> 
> I keep on coming across references to the "MPEG-2 Playback Component" 
and to the necessity to buy it from Apple to be able to do various things with 
MPEG-2 files even in non-Apple programs.
> 
> Is Apple's product the only thing that can do what it does?

It is if you want QuickTime to handle it. However, there may be third party 
MPEG2 Components available.

> If so, is it because it's too difficult to replicate the functionality or is there 
some kind of legal obstacle to doing so?

Most likely license fees to MPEGLA <http://mpegla.com/>

> What is the exact name and location of the component when installed?

I don't have the exact name but it is located in /Library/QuickTime and it's 
name is very close to 'QuickTime MPEG2.component'

> I have old versions of both DVD Studio Pro (1.5) and FCP (3.0), but I can't 
locate the installers right now. If I can find them, would they have the 
component?

Probably, but it also may be for an older version of QuickTime. However, it 
may be upgradeable for no charge.

HTH.

--
Nick Scalise
nickscalise at cox.net