ffmpeg Node

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 prepare videos for different platforms, optimize file size, or change video quality settings.

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 files suitable for mobile devices.
• Changing the frame rate of a video to match broadcast standards.

Properties

Output

The node outputs the transcoded video file in a binary data field named according to the "Video Output Name" property. The json output contains metadata about the operation but primarily the binary field holds the actual video content after transcoding.

Dependencies

• Requires an API key credential for accessing the ffmpeg service.
• Depends on an external ffmpeg processing backend accessible via API.
• No additional environment variables are explicitly required based on the static code.

Troubleshooting

• Invalid Video Input: If the input video URL or binary field name is incorrect or missing, the node will fail to locate the source video. Ensure the input is correctly specified.
• Unsupported Codec: Specifying an unsupported or misspelled video codec may cause errors. Verify codec names against supported ffmpeg codecs.
• Resource Limits: Large video files or high-resolution settings might exceed processing limits or timeouts. Adjust bitrate, resolution, or frame rate accordingly.
• API Authentication Errors: Missing or invalid API credentials will prevent the node from communicating with the ffmpeg service.

Links and References

• FFmpeg Official Documentation
• Common Video Codecs
• n8n Documentation on Binary Data Handling