Or... you could use a program that recognises the vob file format used
on the DVD's. Then you simply copy the files to your hard drive. Since
the industry started out in opposition of any open source software for
DVD's, the Linux folks had to write all their own stuff right from the
start. You might want to look at sourceforge.net for software that has
been ported to windows. VLC does a lot more than what I use it for and
I seem to recall reading that it does this also, but if it doesn't
there will be other software that does.

regards,
Joe

"VideoVic46" wrote in
et:

Each DVD is 4.7 GB, but audio and video are separate mpg files, and
usually highly segmented (not continous) and encrypted.

The alternatives are to:

1. Use a commercial rip solution ($49-$89) to copy the disk image
to your HDD. You can then play each, just as though it were a
physical dvd off you HDD. A few DVDs are encrypted using
sophisticated schemes which will prevent you from doing this. Put
these in large CD binders by topic or genre and carry them aboard,
or

2. Invest 5-6 hrs for each to actually rip the separate mpg audio
and video files, re-edit the highly segmented files using video
editing software, and re-render them to your Goliath HDD or blank
DVD discs;

3. Simply record each in real time from a dvd player through an
inexpensive ($130) time-base-corrector to eliminate the jitter and
skew caused by the anti-copy protection into a dvd recorder
($100-$4500 depending on quality), then transfer those files to
your HDD;

4. Buy copies of your collection on eBay, and put them in binders
to leave aboard; or

5. Get a biggger boat that has space to store your eye candy. You
will enjoy this alterntive the most, if you get a fully gymballed
popcorn popper.