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Handling Difficult DVD to Video iPod Conversions       

While most of your video iPod conversions can be handled easily by the freeware program Handbrake, there are times when it is not able to get the job done. In the never-ending battle against piracy, some DVD producers are employing copy protection and the Handbrake program cannot scan the disk.

 For these video iPod conversions, the solution is to download the 'Mac the Ripper' program. Once you get the program, take a peek at the preferences and settings. Check your hard disk before you start and make sure you have enough free space available for the converted DVD, which can use about 10GB of space. Once the conversion is finished, you will be able to delete this folder.

 For most video iPod conversions, you should be able to keep the defaults of the program. Insert your DVD into your drive and run the program. You will have to choose the file at the top of your screen along with the 'Save To' option for where you want the converted file to be located. Just click the 'Go' button and your conversion will begin. Click the Mode button and select 'Main Feature Extraction' option when you do not want all the other files that may be on the DVD like trailers and comments. Using this option will speed the conversion process along as well as saving you space on your hard drive.

 Please note: Be aware that the program will generate an alert after your DVD conversion is completed, due to the fact that it is technically downloading music and videos, as well as movies is illegal in the US to copy DVDs - even those in your personal library.

 Now you have finished this process you can use the Handbrake program to create a file that is compatible with your video iPod requirements. When you launch the Handbrake program this time, select the DVD Folder/Image, find, and select your Mac the Ripper folder where you saved the contents of your DVD.

Follow the Handbrake instructions and your movie file will be ready. Once the conversion process is completed, you must delete the folder and files that were created with the Mac the Ripper program, because these files are enormous and after a few conversions, you will run out of disk space.

 Clean up your hard drive, space and you will be ready to take advantage of the 'Queue' feature in the Handbrake program. This cool option lets you setup the conversion of a whole list of DVDs automatically. You need to copy the number of DVDs you want to convert to your hard drive with Mac the Ripper. Then simply click the 'Enable' button and adjust the Handbrake program settings to add each new saved DVD to the queue. Now all that is left to do is for you to click the 'Start' button. Now you can go to store, go to work or to your class and your computer is busy humming away at your DVD to video iPod conversions.

 One of the things I noted is that iPods after connected to the USB connector at the back of the box will connect you with iTunes. Once you download iTunes software, you have access to loads of music. Most tracks are less than a buck each, which makes it money saving fun to download music. Once you download the music, you can load it to your iPod and you are on your way to the beat. IPods seem to be fun and entertaining gadgets, so I guess I am on my way to the market to buy my own copy.