Want to make backups of all your dvd movies with 100% free software?
You can!
All you need is a Windows machine, lots of free gigabytes, a dvd writer and lots of time.
This software may be old, but it’s free, it works on any XP+DVD machine and is an (so far) unbeatable combination!
Step 1: The ripping process.
To rip a dvd download and install RipIt4Me 1.7.1.0 and DVD Decrypter 3.5.4.0.
Follow the built-in instructions and proceed ripping the dvd.
(Time: about half an hour*)
This will work with even the latest dvd movies if you follow the instructions carefully!
Step 2: The shrinking process.
To reduce the output of step 1 to an acceptable size (4.5 Gigs DVD writable) you use DVD Shrink.
(Time: about two hours*)
Step 3: Writing the backup
Use BurnAware Free Edition to write the ouput of step 2.
(Time: about half an hour*)
Step 4: Divx/xVid.
Need Xvid avi instead of DVD format? Use the output of step 2 with AutoGK.
(Time : about three hours*)
Step 5: Portable players.
Need to play your movies on your favourite portable MP4 player? Use the output of step 4 with MediaCoder.
(Time: about half an hour*)
*: Time duration depends on hardware and the used settings.
Tips:
Tips for step 1: Check if you can enhance the ripping speed of your dvd writer by using alternative firmware.
Tips for step 2: Perform deep analysis and use maximum sharpness. It takes longer, but looks better.
Tips for step 3: Use verify or use DVD+RW discs if you’re not sure it will work.
Tips for step 4: AutoGK standard uses only xVid. Players like VLC player work perfectly with the xVid format. Your Xbox 360 or PS3 also can handle xVid. Please for the love of all that is holy read the documentation. Experiment with the CTRL-F9 options. If you feed AutoGK a lot of different movies it can batch-process them for you overnight, even with automatic shutdown of your system.
Tips for step 5: MediaCoder can do a LOT. If you want the maximum potential of MediaCoder, install FireFox and read all the documentation carefully.
General tips: Experiment, but read the manuals/instructions! If the download links do not work, use Google dammit!
To all who reply: I know there is other software than the above.