HTPC content

[Speedster]

So, I'm thinking of going the HTPC route. But then I'm wondering, where does one get (legal) content for the thing? I have a bunch (about 30-odd) DVD's which would be great if they were available on the HTPC. Is it possible to create an image of the CD and access that via the HTPC? Obviously I don't want to compress anything in any way, nor lose the extra features.

 

[Chevron]

So, I'm thinking of going the HTPC route. But then I'm wondering, where does one get (legal) content for the thing? I have a bunch (about 30-odd) DVD's which would be great if they were available on the HTPC. Is it possible to create an image of the CD and access that via the HTPC? Obviously I don't want to compress anything in any way, nor lose the extra features.

Very easy. There's a whole bunch of programs that will only strip the copyright crap without transcoding. Will only take a few min per dvd as well.

Just can't think of any names off the top of my head though. Been ages since I've done it.

 

[Hemps]

MakeMKV is nice if you just want the movie....cant remember the program that makes a full iso of DVD with all features inside.

the only thing that as ever annoyed me about HTPC's is boot time, unless you leave the thing on 24/7.

 

[jay-co]

to get the full disc content try DVDFAB

 

[Chevron]

dvd decrypter should work for old dvds.

Maybe try dvd shrink. The program does give you the option to compress dvds though so you'll have to disable that.

There's also ANYDVD.

 

[herit]

the only thing that as ever annoyed me about HTPC's is boot time, unless you leave the thing on 24/7.

Instead of shutting down the PC, put it in sleep mode. Starts up instantly again.
That's what I do anyway

 

[Penquin]

Or use Linux/XMBCbuntu. My HTPC takes about 10 seconds to boot straight into XBMC.

 

[SirFooK'nG]

to get the full disc content try DVDFAB

+1 for DVD Fab (not "free" )

It will strip the copyright stuff & you can chose which Vobs extras etc you want. You can do 1:1 or Shrink it to 4.7gb