AVCHD Video Files

AVCHD (Advanced Video Coding High Definition) is a format for the recording and playback of high definition video. Some video cameras that record to memory cards record files that use he AVCHD compression and the files often have the m2ts format extension.

Final Cut Pro and iMovie can import and the files but they need to be in the original folder structure from the memory card. This means that you need to import the files from the memory card or make a copy of the entire card. Final Cut Pro and iMovie converts the files as they import them to a codec that is easier for editing.

• Imovie converts the files to AIC (Apple Intermediate Codec).
• Final Cut Pro to ProRes 422 or ProRes 422 LT.

• For the Vixia cameras the entire BDMV folder needs to be copied intact.
• VLC can be used to open and view the .mts files.

For more information on importing the files into Final Cut read the Log and Transfer tutorial or for iMovie read the Import from Vixia article.