Topic: .wmv files

[Clive]

My computer has lost the ability to open .wmv files and I wonder where I can get a reliable download?

[Simon]

You may just need to re-associate the files.  Have you tried right clicking one, selecting Open With... and choosing Windows Media Player?

[Clive]

I'm afraid that it doesn't right click.  I'll see if I can open them on my laptop but that doesn't solve the problem for this computer.

[Simon]

Are these files saved on your computer?  I can't see why it won't right click. 

[daveeb]

You should be able to right click on the files Clive and then associate them with windows media player (or other) as Simon mentioned. If you can't, i'd uninstall windows media player and then reinstall it in case the codecs have become corrupt.

[Simon]

You can also go in My Computer > Tools > Folder Options > File Types (tab), then scroll down the list to the file type you're looking for, in this case, WMV.  It should say what program those files are associated with, as per the screen below, and you can change it if incorrect, or not associated.

[Clive]

No the files weren't saved on the computer as such a file sent as an e-mail attachment would normally just open.  But after saving it to my desktop I find that clicking on it opens Nero which allows me to view it.   

[Simon]

Well, they shouldn't really open in Nero.  If you follow the steps above, you should be able to re-associate them with Windows Media Player. 

[Clive]

Interesting Simon.  I've just done that and it says that .wmv files open with Nero Showtime.     But obviously they have to be saved on the computer first. 

[Rik]

Nero is known to be greedy...

[Simon]

Yes, Nero has probably 'stolen' the association, but at some point, you've probably inadvertently allowed it to.  Just change it back to Windows Media Player, and you should be fine - or, I guess you could leave it as it is, if you want Nero clunking into gear each time you want to look at a video.

[Clive]

Oh well, there are now so many problems with this desktop that I intend getting something more up-to-date later in the year.  My dilemna is that I don't know whether to replace it with another PC or a laptop.  Or could I manage with an iPad?   

[Simon]

Depends what you want it for.  An iPad is only really any good for basic web surfing, messaging and emails.  It won't replicate all of the functions of a PC.

[Clive]

I know.  I truly love using a desktop but Mrs Clive says it's time I came into the 20th century.   

[Simon]

Rik's got one.