The word “codec” refers to compression/decompression program or device used for video, music and images. When they are available on your computer system and working properly, using them is transparent to the end user. Unfortunately, codecs for all uses are not always included with special use programs (such as photoshop) or operating systems (windows XX or X versions, 32 and 64-bit). Most video editing programs come with their own proprietary codecs, but do not include codecs for all video formats.
From a photography perspective, this results in not be able to see thumbnails of raw images forcing you to open a proprietary program in order to see thumbnails of raw files. If this fits into your workflow, then you may not need nor desire the ability to see raw image thumbnails in Windows explore, view raw files in windows file viewer or view raw files in windows media center.
Some photo editing tasks benefit from the ability to view raw thumbnails. For example, Photomatix Pro will open a dialogue box asking you what you want to do with a set of images when you drag them from windows explorer and drop them in the Photomatix window. You can also drag from Adobe Bridge which also lets you view thumbnails of raw images. If you always work from Bridge, perhaps you don’t need a better solution. If you like to see your files, no matter what window you are in, there is an easy way to do so.
Axel Rietschin Software Developments has produced a codec pack that allows you to see thumbnails for CR2, CRW, NEF, NRW, PEF, ORF and Adobe DNG files in 64-bit and 32-bit versions of Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP SP3. The company also produces FastPictureViewer Professional which includes their codec pack and provides a way to quickly scan through your images and determine which ones you will keep. Their website has a number of video tutorials on how to effectively use FastPictureViewer Professional and they offer 32-bit and 64-bit free trial downloads of their program.
FastPictureViewer Professional also offers tethered shooting capability. Video tutorials are available on their website.
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