Convert MKV files

Configuration
1

Hi,

I am using a Foscam camera which uploads video files to the FTP Server on my Home Assistant server (Raspberry Pi). These files are stored in my media directory which should enable me to view the videos easily within the Companion App.

However these files are stored as MKV files. I cannot view these files and therefore I am searching for a solution.

What I tried (or thought of):
With using a file creating event (Platform folder_watcher), I want to monitor if an new video is uploaded to the FTP folder. If that is the case, convert this file and delete the MKV file. The idea was to make use of the ffmpeg command. I was inspired by this post: 0.115: B-Day release! Media browser, tags, automations & WTH - #267 by SeanM

I do not know if this is the good direction. Neither do I know if ffmpeg is installed or how to install it (Yes I read the docs). And should I convert to MP4 or to some other file?

Thanks in advance!

2

Looks like some Foscam camera have a semi-hidden MJPEG stream, which should be readable in a browser.

How to get the MJPEG stream of Foscam camera using a CGI command?-Foscam Support - FAQs

If that doesn’t fill your bill, ffmpeg is the way to go, e.g. Record Foscam IP camera live feed (github.com)

3

Thanks for coming back to me.

Your solution didn’t fit my needs unfortunately. Now I’m trying to figure out if ffmpeg is actually installed on my Raspberry Pi. I’m running Home Assistant OS 5.13.

How can I find if ffmpeg is installed?

4

I know this thread is old but I have basically the exact same situation with a Foscam floodlight.

I have it set up so that videos get recorded to HA via ftp and have them sent to my phone via Telegram using the Folder Watch sensor im HA ( it looks for new ftp files) but they’re mkv and Telegram can’t play them natively. I could open them in VLC on my phone but that’s a pain and takes too long.

Converting them to MP4 and then having Telegram send it would be a much better option.