December 13, 2010
Backing up DVDs
Some software directly back-up (copy) DVDs, others require a two stage process that is really cumbersome. However, if you need to see the movie in a different format, then a RIPPER is needed.
Rippers that don't directly burn DVDs create problems when DVD9 (dual layer) format is involved (e.g. see this: http://club.myce.com/f62/guide-splitting-dvd9-into-two-dvd5s-61267/. It is best to avoid such software.
DIRECT BACKUP-AND-BURN
The best software is that which directly makes a copy of the DVD (e.g. from a DVD9 it automatically creates two DVD5 DVDs).
OPTIONS:
- Xilisoft DVD Copy Express [PAID THROUGH TRIAL PAY – waiting confirmation of codes]
- DVDCloner8 [not working: trial period over]
RIPPERS THAT CREATE IFO/VOB files (TWO STAGE PROCESS)
STEP 1:BACKUP
Use software that creates copies on the hard disk. Don't use the "convert" option, instead use the BACKUP option, within which if you want to backup a dual layer disk you'd have to split it into two (from DVD9 to two DVD5). It is important that an exact replica is made (i.e. you should get VIDEO_TS folder containing VOB files.
STEP 2: BURN ON DVD-R
After this use Nero to burn the data onto the relevant number of DVDs. This should play automatically (using Windows Media Player) on the computer. Backups might work on ordinary DVD players as well.
Software to use:
- DVD Decrypter [Free] – works well
- SmartRipper [Free] but difficult to autoplay the output
- Magic DVD Ripper [Trial period over]
RIPPERS THAT DO NOT CREATE DVD-WRITABLE FILES
- DVDx [FREE]
- Xilisoft DVD Ripper Platinum 5 [Trial]
Here's another list.
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FREE. Works reasonably well. Only converts into a hard drive, doesn't make a backup copy directly.
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FULL VERSION available (gifted away). However, it requires two step conversion. Not very useful.
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Xilisoft DVD Ripper Platinum 5
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Only converts to hard drive – and not a DVD copiable version either.
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Xilisoft DVD Copy Express
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A cloner. Good.
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Magic DVD Ripper
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Generally did a good job but struggled with bad sector issues.
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Free but does not autoplay the copied disk. Not very useful.
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DVDCloner8
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Simple and effective. The best I've tried so far.
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Burn ISO file