Adobe Premier Elements 12 - AVI file not supported or missing codec, how so

[Paddler4x]

Yes, I purchased and registered this licensed program about 5 years ago, it's old, I get it, I just never used it, having been a licensed LR user for the stand along version and now the CC version along with PS.  I just never used any program including this one to edit / create any videos. 

I just want to import a small AVI file from a dashboard video camera that recorded a MVA less then 12 hours ago I was witnessed too and want to extract a 40 second portion of the file to provide to a survivor who is in the hospital to clear him of any faults and to get help with medical bills.

When I drag in the AVI file into the program to get started in the Editor, I get this what I believe is a false error message since even this older version running on Windows 10 pro, supports AVI files: "This type of file is not supported, or the required codec is not installed". 

Can anyone help please? 

[Bill Sprague]

The three letters at the end of a video file name specify the "container".  Inside the file can be a wide variety of "codecs".  Premiere Elements targets the codecs from consumer video cameras.  It does not have all the codecs.

Three suggestions: 

For just one clip you need to trim, try Lightroom.  Import it, double click on it, trim it and export it.  It may be all you need.   FWIW, Lightroom can make videos.  You edit the clips, put them in a Slideshow and output an HD video. 

Photoshop also has video editing capability.  If Lightroom doesn't work, Photoshop might.

If those don't work, the (free) Handbrake program will convert almost anything to a more editable MP4 file. 

Good luck! 

[Peru Bob]

Here is a link to a Handbrake tutorial:

Fixing  video with Handbrake - YouTube

[Steve Grisetti]

If Ann's suggestion doesn't work, open your AVI in the free download MediaInfo. In MediaInfo, set View to Text and then copy the report it generates and post it to this forum. Once we know your video's specs, we'll better be able to help you.

As Bill says, there are hundreds if not thousands of possible compression methods used to create AVIs. Only a few of these codecs create editable video.

[Bill Sprague]

The OP is only trying to capture a 40 second portion of a dash cam video.   Getting a 5 year old version running on the latest Windows my not be worth the trouble. 

Another possibility is using the renowned video player called "VLC".  It is free, plays everything and will trim clips.

https://www.vlchelp.com/cut-trim-videos-with-vlc-media-player/