Tversity - Making it Work for PS3 *updated 11/23/09

[KarnaG3]

Has anyone had any problems when they changed the mpeg from mpeg16 to mpeg2 in RC1? When playing the file in mpeg 16, the file id on the PS3 will say mpeg2 until you watch the video where it says mepg1. Then after changing the mpeg to 2, the file doesn't work.

Make sure you are doing a full restart of the Tversity server before doing this. Otherwise it will not refresh the profile.xml file that is in use and it will just fail.

Let me know what happens; there may be another cause, too.

[KarnaG3]

Karnag3,

it seems you know what you are doing with this program so maybe you could give me some advise. I'm not computer sabby so please go slow. I have the latest version of tversity and the latest version of ps3 software. everything is working fine like watching downloaded videos from my computer, except for videos that are online. it seems that i cant play anything directly from the web it gives me a corrupt file error or some other message that it cant play it. even the links from the guide with in tversity could not be disp[layed. i think i got to tweak something but really dont know what. PLEASE HELP ME, I WOULD LOVE TO ENJOY EVERYTHING THAT THIS SOFTWARE HAS TO OFFER. thankxs in advace..

There ARE some streaming videos via internet that will NOT play on the PS3. If you wanted to go thru the complicated process of accessing the internet ON your PS3, but VIA the Tversity server, this is possible, but kind of a pain if, like you said, you are not computer savvy.

I'd say your easiest solution is to download the files and add them to your Tversity folders. You can use Tversity to access internet video & media streams in the new RC1 version. Try messing with this. Definately an easy solution to PS3's limited internet media abilities.

[KarnaG3]

Followed everything to the letter and now I have .mkv video playback working however when playing .mkv files the sound is severely distorted making everyone sound like they have been filtered through a slow talking robot voice filter. Any suggestions ?

The files I am trying to play are 720p HDTV x264 rips of mainly Battlestar Gallactica if that helps at all.

Edit.

On closer testing it would seem that all the media files with AC3 sound are also suffering from the same distorted sound issue, Help !!!!

Many people keep saying this. I had the same issue, and you hit the nail on the head. Its due to your AC3 filter settings.

Make sure that FFDShow Audio Decoder is NOT set to decode AC3.

Make sure AC3Filter IS set to decode AC3. *REBOOT*

For some reason, it seems both are set by default to decode AC3, but I never had an issue w/it until I got MKV working. Ironic, huh?

If this doesn't work, try uninstalling your codec pack, reboot. STOP the Tversity server in your System Services. Reinstall your codec pack, then go to your FFDShow audio & AC3 and correct the settings, making sure to Apply them where needed. REBOOT, do NOT start the server again until after reboot; should start itself.

Let me know what happens, hope this helps!

*edit* forgot to mention PCM. depending on your MKV, it probably uses PCM, AAC or AC3. Mine all seem to use AC3. But take a look at my reply to tsiawd666 about 2 posts down from this one. I think this should resolve your issues.

[KarnaG3]

any 1 got the debug to work?

i have tried reg mech and all it does is sit there and scan. i have it scanning for 24 hours and it will still going and would not fix any think.

If its been scanning for that long, just kill it, uninstall it, reboot and reinstall it.

It should only take about 5min, MAX. Its not nearly as intensive as a virus scan.

[KarnaG3]

I wanted to post that following these instructions worked, generally, and now allow me to play mkv files WITH subtitles! I pulled a lot of hair out with a bajillion different settings and software and this guide helped out a lot.

I said generally though for a reason. As written, this didn't get me subtitles, and mkv sound was broken for some files. The sound was due to fdshow's audio decoder trying to handle PCM, and per someone else's guide on these forums (I can't remember where I saw it unfortunately) I disabled all pcm decoding so that the AC3 filter would handle it. This fixed the sound.

The subtitles also would not work as written. I used the Vista Codec pack which installs directvobsub to handle subtitles, and for MKV files defaults to the Haali media splitter. I thought directvobsub was the problem and removed it, but still nothing. I'm only mentioning it as I'm not sure it was part of the problem at all. What finally did it was switching from the default Haali media splitter to the Gabest media splitter for my mkv files. This can be done in the start menu shortcuts under 32-bit tools and mkv settings, as it lets you change the splitter for them via a shortcut. I did this again based on a recommendation from another user on these forums but can't remember who. You still must turn on subtitles per this guide in fdshow with those checkboxes. The explanation by the other user for the need for this was that the haali media splitter was not allowing fdshow to handle subtitles properly, but gabest does.

Just my experience, but hope it helps some others out there deal with this incredibly frustrating problem. Now I just wish I could find a trick to gain enough efficiency so my pc can handle 1080p h264 transcoding

Awsome! Thanks for sharing. Alternatively, you can also try disabling subtitles to be handled in FFDShow as Haali *should* read them.

And yes, you can use FFDShow OR AC3Filter to decode PCM, and this may be causing some other audio issues people are having with MKV.

I personally have AC3Filter set to decode PCM, AC3, DTS & DVD.

Thanks again for constructive comments!

[KarnaG3]

I usually have trouble forwarding and rewinding videos files when transcoded is required or it's set to always transcode.

Has anyone else experienced this? Are there any tweaks that can be tried?

Try using the "Go To" option on the PS3 menu. Click X on it, then click X again when it highlights the time and you can just forward to another minute, second, etc.

Not quite as handy as just fast fwd or rwnd, but it works.

Some files just don't want to allow the fwd/rwd function, I haven't quite figured this out yet. It DOES work for some file types but it seems DivX and MKV don't work well with it.

You can try setting your DivX to disabled in FFDShow and it will still stream to PS3 and be decoded natively, but I haven't found this resolves all the fwd/rwd issues.

Honestly, I feel its more of a bandwidth issue than anything. Fwd/Rwd requires on-the-fly transcoding to read ahead (if fwd) on the file and then stream it, too, so you can see how this will require a bit of processing power.

[KarnaG3]

What are the advantages of having tversity run as a separate user?

If you choose to do this, you can log in as that user in Vista/XP and setup that user account to run the minimal background programs & services.

This frees processing power, memory & bandwidth (for network-related services).

I use Vista, and basically setup this 2nd user as a completely stripped-down account.

If you use XP, you can create a separate hardware profile for this user as well (this is possible in Vista, but its kind of a pain) and control which hardward devices (like USB that is a memory & processor hog) load when Windows starts.

I personally would use the hardware profile to disable all but the USB Bus and/or USB2 bus used by my external harddrive. I would also disable ANY hardware not in use. DON'T disable your sound card as some have issues with transcoding when doing this.

If you have installed your software for "all users" you may have an issue getting your virus scan and/or software firewall/malware, etc, to NOT load w/the 2nd user.

IF you were thinking WAY ahead and installed your software on your PRIMARY account for "this user only" when given the option, you WILL find that that software (usually virus scans, like McAfee give this option) will not load on your 2nd user account. You can see how this would be usefull, but may not be recommended.

All of these are ONLY useful if you plan on using a separate log on to run Tversity.

It also allows you to control Tversity by easily making it NOT load when you want to use your primary log on.

[KarnaG3]

I have spent so much time over the last few days trying to get this work, and thanks to you, im gold!

My only issue now is my folders. I have a maxtor shared storage drive networked to all my computers, but it wont work in TVersity. I have done the recommend changes to have it LogOnAs an administrator, but when I try to add the folder on the shared network into TVersity I keep getting cannot access or does not exist. I have followed directions on the FAQ and in these forums, to no avail. Would the fact that the drive is password protected make a difference? Its set up with the maxtor software and I unlock it before I open TVersity.

Any help on this would be much appreciated as all my files are on there... thanks! and thanks so much again for getting me this far and getting it working!

Yes, and yes.

You have the *drive* shared to each computer, but sometimes you have to make sure your folders and subfolders are also set to be shared.

It seems this issue only comes up on external hard drives. I do not have this issue with my Seagate, but I've heard of other people having it.

Your password lock via Maxtor software will be an issue. Keep in mind, when your PC loads System Services, this IS when Tversity starts.

I does NOT just start when you open the GUI software.

So, if your HDD is NOT unlocked when Windows BOOTS, Tversity will NOT see the drive.

If you have already unlocked the drive, then added the folders (assuming it reads the folders, I'm not an expert on your HDD password software) from this drive, then the next time you run Tversity after your next reboot (where the drive is LOCKED on boot) you should be able to 1) unlock the drive, 2) go into Tversity and "restart sharing" and it should read the folders.

Keep in mind, tho, you'll have to do this EVERYtime after a new reboot, and/or when ever your HDD locks again.

I'd suggest not password protecting your drive. Unless you have content that someone else who you allow to access your network isn't supposted to see on that drive, you don't need to PW it to protect it.

You'd be better off making sure you have a secure network if you are just trying to keep outsiders out of the drive. Trust me, if someone can hack your network, a passworded hard drive is child's play.

[KarnaG3]

Followed every step but ending when I select at PS3 a video, this gives network, DLNA protocol errors and TVersity goes offline.

Sounds like a router or firewall issue. Keep in mind, if Tversity server IS running, you attempt to access it and it drops, for some reason your network is not allowing the PS3 and Tversity to properly communicate.

You need to make sure your ports are correctly forwarded, your router allows UPnP and that your firewall is giving access to the Tversity program for internet and the port is also forwarded in the firewall.

Tversity.com & the install program now recommend that you disable the service labled "UPnP Device Host" to be disabled. This is because the Tversity server basically does the same thing, but exclusively for Tversity.

Please let me know if this works; if it doesn't, I need a detailed description of how your router is setup, and the name brand & model wouldn't hurt either.

Also, and this seems like an obvious move, but is not enabled by default, go into your PS3 settings /Network Settings and make sure Media Server Connection is enabled. In theory, you won't be able to see the Tversity Media server if it is NOT, however I have heard that this is sometimes not the case, and possibly due to a recent firmware update, the setting gets changed to Disabled, but the server can still be seen but not accessed.

[tsiawd666]

Awsome! Thanks for sharing. Alternatively, you can also try disabling subtitles to be handled in FFDShow as Haali *should* read them.

Well I think that was the problem as when Haali split it out it wouldn't show up in the transcoded video shown in by the ps3. When I switched splitters to Gabest which let ffdshow handle them, it shows up. Maybe I've just misunderstood what you meant?

[picman123]

karnaG3, You have done much more on figuring out how Tversity works with Vista than a lot of people and I thank you for sharing and helping many people on the fourm. I hope you can help me as well. I have a simple use for my Vista Home Preimum sp1 PC (Duo core 2.66 and 4 gigs of ram) and that is to stream my Blu-ray DVD colection to my PS3. The files are all *.ts files with LPCM audio and Mpeg2 or AVC video on a wired connection. I do not have transcoded on for Tversity as these files stream correctly without transcoding. I have 2 issues, having the PS3 see Tversity without having to restart the media server everytime I turn on my PS3 and stuttering if I connect my PC to the internet. If I don't connect to the internet I have no stuttering and all my files play great. The router I am using is a DIR-655 dlink with the wireless shut off. What would be helpful is a shorten version of your first post for setting up my PC/PS3. Please let me know if you need more information or if you prefer separate PM to work these issues out.

Edit:
Additonal PC setup information, I have a separate administrator logon I use for Tversity, the media server does come up automatically on the PC.
I have the SSDP Discovery service disabled. I use Norton's personal firewall with the Tversity and media server process's set to Allow. The UAC is disabled as well. I have a Realtek gigabyte NIC on my motherboard that I use to connect to a Netgear gigabyte switch and from the switch to the 80gig PS3 (2.36 version)


Thank you for any help. picman123

[matty_1210]

any 1 got the debug to work?

i have tried reg mech and all it does is sit there and scan. i have it scanning for 24 hours and it will still going and would not fix any think.

If its been scanning for that long, just kill it, uninstall it, reboot and reinstall it.

It should only take about 5min, MAX. Its not nearly as intensive as a virus scan.

iv tried it like 3 times.

[KarnaG3]

Awsome! Thanks for sharing. Alternatively, you can also try disabling subtitles to be handled in FFDShow as Haali *should* read them.

Well I think that was the problem as when Haali split it out it wouldn't show up in the transcoded video shown in by the ps3. When I switched splitters to Gabest which let ffdshow handle them, it shows up. Maybe I've just misunderstood what you meant?

With the Haali splitter you don't (or aren't supposed to) need subtitled to be decoded by FFDShow video. It SHOULD be done by Haali, but I've heard many people with (mostly Anime?) certain types of MKV have issues.

If Gabest does the job though, awsome!

[KarnaG3]

any 1 got the debug to work?

i have tried reg mech and all it does is sit there and scan. i have it scanning for 24 hours and it will still going and would not fix any think.

If its been scanning for that long, just kill it, uninstall it, reboot and reinstall it.

It should only take about 5min, MAX. Its not nearly as intensive as a virus scan.

iv tried it like 3 times.

What operating system do you use?

That's kind of odd that it would hang like that, but it may also be conflicting with your virus scan. McAfee and/or Norton may recognize it as a PuP or Malware because it accesses your registry. You may want to try to disable your virus scan while you run it.

Let me know

[KarnaG3]

karnaG3, You have done much more on figuring out how Tversity works with Vista than a lot of people and I thank you for sharing and helping many people on the fourm. I hope you can help me as well. I have a simple use for my Vista Home Preimum sp1 PC (Duo core 2.66 and 4 gigs of ram) and that is to stream my Blu-ray DVD colection to my PS3. The files are all *.ts files with LPCM audio and Mpeg2 or AVC video on a wired connection. I do not have transcoded on for Tversity as these files stream correctly without transcoding. I have 2 issues, having the PS3 see Tversity without having to restart the media server everytime I turn on my PS3 and stuttering if I connect my PC to the internet. If I don't connect to the internet I have no stuttering and all my files play great. The router I am using is a DIR-655 dlink with the wireless shut off. What would be helpful is a shorten version of your first post for setting up my PC/PS3. Please let me know if you need more information or if you prefer separate PM to work these issues out.

Edit:
Additonal PC setup information, I have a separate administrator logon I use for Tversity, the media server does come up automatically on the PC.
I have the SSDP Discovery service disabled. I use Norton's personal firewall with the Tversity and media server process's set to Allow. The UAC is disabled as well. I have a Realtek gigabyte NIC on my motherboard that I use to connect to a Netgear gigabyte switch and from the switch to the 80gig PS3 (2.36 version)


Thank you for any help. picman123

1) Well thanks for being detailed! That makes it easier. I can safely say that I don't think you have a codec problem at all.

2) Network issues:
a) Firewall: Norton is a problematic virus scan/firewall program so I cannot get too detailed as I don't use it. However, enabling your program in the firewall as "Allow" will allow it to access your network by giving it out/inbound access to the *internet*. This does NOT open the port in the firewall. Most uncommon ports are NOT open by default in a firewall, so you need to open port 41952 (or whatever you assigned in Tversity) in your firewall. (please try ONLY this first, then tell me what happened)

b) Why do you have a router AND a Netgear switch? Switch is a generic term; is this a router or hub? Either way, you also need to ensure that port 41952 is open on any router in the network. Also make sure that UPnP is enable on all routers and that the PS3 is allowed to access said routers for UPnP. In some routers you need to enable UPnP for individual devices, usually based on MAC address, which it should auto-identify.

c) It sounds like if you are experiencing issues AFTER you get online on your PC but not before you may be sharing an IP with the PS3. Make sure your routers are set to "reserve" the IP used by your PC *for* your PC, and the same for your PS3.
I found that my router would assign IP 192.168.1.A (a being whatever the next free IP was) to whatever device connected first. So if I connected my PS3 first, it would get assigned 192.168.1.2 and the PC would in turn get .3 . If the PC connected first, it would flip-flop. Tversity does not like this, and it may also cause issues with UPnP operating correctly on your router in regard to the PS3.

One last thing I like to do with my Netgear router is to allow access ONLY to certain devices, by MAC address. It automatically identifies the MAC and the IP currently used by that MAC. It will ONLY allow those devices to connect, even if you have my router security PW. This means your PC can't even attempt to connect unless I assign your personal MAC address myself. This is a very easy way to setup security and to help your router identify which devices are used for what (ex. UPnP).

Try this and make sure to try *1 thing at a time* and let me know the results of each and I'm sure we can figure it out.


**edit** it just dawned on me that you noted you are on the 2.36 firmware on your PS3. 2.40 is out.

BEFORE YOU TRY ANY OF THIS, PLEASE, upgrade to 2.40.

I'm not aware of ANY updates in particular to DLNA protocol with this update, but I have heard TONS of issues that seemed to pop up with 2.36 and Tversity.

I have had NO issues w/Tversity since DL the 1.0 RC1 version & update to 2.40, so I have to recommend it and prior to the update, I had everything working about 95% of the time with NO DLNA errors. I did still have some minor playback issues, here & there, but I NOW have NO DLNA or Playback issues since the 2 updates.