File Types Associated With RealPlayer Software And Possible Issues

RealPlayer is a cross-platform audio and video playback application from RealNetworks Inc. Just like other popular media players, RealPlayer too supports various file formats.  Though it is a stable application, at times you may encounter an error when you try to play an audio or video file using RealPlayer.

The aim of this article is to provide users with troubleshooting steps they can use to resolve errors related to various file types associated with the RealPlayer software. But first, let’s see common file types associated with RealPlayer and causes of file type errors.

File types associated with RealPlayer

• .rm file extension – The .rm file type is primarily used for listening to audio content or watching video files over the Internet using RealPlayer or some other compatible media player. The audio or video content present in .rm files are encoded using the RealNetwork’s proprietary RealAudio and RealVideo codecs.
• .rpm file extension - .rpm files are commonly referred to as RealPlayer Plug-in files. The main purpose of these files is to enhance RealPlayer’s functionality or enable it to play different file formats.
• .wmv file extension - .wmv files are video files and are recorded to be primarily associated with Windows Media Files. The file format was developed by Microsoft and is extensively used for Internet streaming and watching videos. This file format is supported by various media players including RealPlayer.

Why does a file type error occur?

Common causes of errors pertaining to files associated with RealPlayer are:

• The file you are trying to play is corrupt or file openers on Windows system are damaged or corrupt.
• Audio drivers are not properly installed or are outdated
• Malware Infection

Troubleshooting file type errors associated with the RealPlayer software

Step #1 – Use an advanced file opener program to open the desired file

Use this method when you receive the ‘cannot open the file’ or a similar error when you try to play a file type that is compatible with RealPlayer. A corrupt file or damaged file openers on a Windows system may prevent you from playing a desired file. To fix the issue, use a reliable file opener program. Such applications are adept in resolving issues related to corrupt files or damaged file openers. A word of caution, select a file opener program that is compatible with your version of Windows, otherwise it may do more harm than good.

Step #2 – Reinstall or update your audio driver

Incorrectly installed or outdated audio drivers not only limit the functionality of associated hardware, but may also cause various application errors. Open the Device Manager window by running the devmgmt.msc command to verify audio drivers are correctly installed (a yellow or red exclamation mark against a device indicate there is some problem). In case your drivers are not properly configured, visit the driver manufacturer’s website and install the latest available updates.

Step #3 – Run a malware check

Lastly, if the error persists, run a malware check on your PC to ensure your PC is not infected. Before you perform a malware scan, it is recommended that you update your security tool with the latest malware definitions to enable it to identify and take appropriate action against the latest malware if present in your Windows PC.

 

credit: DigitalEnterprises