How to Fix a Timecode in VOB

Video Object files are the container format for video DVDs. VOB files can contain video, audio, subtitles, menus and other information, all in one package. VOB files are usually stored in a folder in the root of the DVD directory. These files also contain timecode information which determines proper video playback. If you have incorrect timecode values in a VOB file, use software that scans for and repairs these problems.

The timecode inside a VOB file is a numeric sequence that corresponds with and tracks every individual frame within the video. These timecode values assist in video playback, and also determine the length of the video as displayed by the player. Invalid timecode information can result in choppy playback or corrupted videos that may run shorter or longer than they really are. There are a few programs that can process a VOB file and attempt to recalculate and repair timecode values.

MPEG StreamClip is a general purpose video editor, converter and player. It supports a long list of input formats, including VOB. Inside the program preferences is an option for timecode repair; check this "Fix streams with data breaks" option to have the program scan any opened VOB files for timecode breaks. If problems in the timecode are detected, the program gives you the option repairing them. MPEG StreamClip is free software that's available for Windows and Mac (see Resources).

VideoReDo Plus is an MPEG video editor. MPEG is the actual video format contained inside a VOB file, which is just a container format, and this program focuses on editing those types of videos. Open the VOB file within this program, and then select the "QuickStream Fix" menu option to have the program scan the video and attempt to repair invalid timecode values. VideoReDo Plus is a paid Windows program, although there is a free trial download (see Resources).

All Media Fixer is a program designed to repair damaged media files. It supports a long list of file types, including VOB and MPEG. Unlike some other programs, however, it is designed exclusively around repair and doesn't include other video editing or conversion features. To repair timecode information, open the video file, and then choose "Start check and fix" from either the menu or the toolbar. The program then scans the file and attempts to repair timecode problems. The operation works on the original file, so no separate output file is created. This program cost $30 as of January 2014, and is available for Windows.