ffmpeg Node icon

ffmpeg Node

n8n Node for some Ffmpeg functionality
Join our community

Actions11

Overview

This node provides video transcoding functionality using ffmpeg. It allows users to convert input videos into different formats by specifying the desired video codec and various transcoding options such as bitrate, frame rate, and resolution. This is useful for scenarios where you need to optimize videos for different devices, reduce file size, or change encoding formats for compatibility.

Practical examples include:

  • Converting a raw video file into an MP4 format with H.264 codec for web streaming.
  • Reducing video resolution and bitrate to create smaller preview clips.
  • Changing frame rates to match specific playback requirements.

Properties

Name Meaning
Video Input A valid video URL or the name of the input binary field containing the video to transcode.
Video Output Name The name of the output binary field where the transcoded video file will be stored.
Video Codec The codec to use for transcoding the video (e.g., h264, vp9).
Transcoding Options Collection of optional parameters:
- Video Bitrate: target bitrate in kbps (default 480)
- Fram Rate: frames per second (default 480)
- Resolution: output resolution string (e.g., "640x480")

Output

The node outputs the transcoded video file in a binary data field named according to the "Video Output Name" property. The json output typically contains metadata about the operation or the processed item, while the actual video content is provided as binary data suitable for further processing or saving.

Dependencies

  • Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg service.
  • Relies on an external ffmpeg-based service or API configured within n8n credentials.
  • No additional environment variables are explicitly required based on static analysis.

Troubleshooting

  • Common issues:
    • Invalid or inaccessible video input URL or missing binary input field.
    • Unsupported or incorrectly specified video codec leading to transcoding failure.
    • Incorrect transcoding options causing errors (e.g., invalid resolution format).
  • Error messages:
    • Errors related to input not found usually mean the input video URL or binary field is incorrect or empty.
    • Codec-related errors indicate unsupported codecs or misconfiguration.
    • Bitrate or resolution parsing errors suggest invalid values; ensure numeric and string formats are correct.
  • Resolutions:
    • Verify the input video source is accessible and correctly referenced.
    • Use supported codec names as per ffmpeg documentation.
    • Double-check transcoding option values for correctness.

Links and References

Discussion