Copy DVD to MacBook

Katykat

I want to put a copy of my sons wedding DVD on to my MacBook. It isn't copywrited . I searched for the way to do it ( load DVD, open disk utility! new image, save as -- encryption - none, format -DVD/CD. The computer seems to read the disk and a copy does appear in my destination folder but when I open the DVD copy, there are 2 folders there, one called Audio and one called Video. They are both empty though. In my research, it says that MacBooks have a built in DVD copier so I thouht I would have no problems. So what am I doing wrong?

InsideInsurance

You're best off downloading the opensource Handbrake (http://handbrake.fr/) and using that to encode the DVD into something more PC/ Mac friendly than a DVD (eg MP4)

Cycrow

you want to rip the DVD rather than copy it.

there are plenty of software that can do it, both free and paid.

Handbrake is pretty good thou, and free

Katykat

I don't really understand what rip means. I still want the DVD so it can be viewed on the TV, but I also want to store it on my computer so it doesn't degrade.

thescouselander

+1 for using Handbrake to convert the DVD to something like Mpeg4 (H264) format. Doing this will make the file easier to store and play on the computer and it can be converted back to burn another DVD if required.

The software itself is pretty easy to use - just download it and give it a go and if you get stuck just come back here for a few tips.

macman

Have you first copied the DVD file over to the desktop?
Then work on it from there.

Cycrow

Katykat wrote: »

I don't really understand what rip means. I still want the DVD so it can be viewed on the TV, but I also want to store it on my computer so it doesn't degrade.

Ripping is basically converted the data on the DVD to something else
whereas a copy will just keep it in the same format, ie the DVD format, which isn't the best format for watching on a computer.

it doesn't damage the DVD or effect it in anyway, its just the term thats used. And knowing the correct term makes it easier to search in google if needed.

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/how-to/digital-home/3332271/how-rip-dvd-computer/

Katykat

Thanks Cycrow.. Macman, I'll try that