Start by installing the newest Klite codec pack.
Use vertual dub to cut your raw files, and when you cut them, re-encode to another codec. (Divix is better in movie maker, nero, and pinnacle). X-vid is the best, but can be choppy, in the for mentioned programs.
Open v-dub, add raw file, change video codec, change audio codec, (Mpeg 3 layer works well with divix), Highlight your sections, save avi as,...1,2,3, (or whatever), etc.
THEN compile in Nero, moviemaker, pinnacle, etc. any video longer than 15 min., I recommend, compiling in 3 or more "Finished sections", especially if you adding a lot of text or transitions. (Helps keep from losing everything, if your pc bogs down).
LOL.
sample. (Most of you have seen)
You can see where I didn't follow my own advise. chops, and single black frames, that were un-removable.