Is there such a software

[seekninfo]

I hope I am in the correct forum area. I am wondering if there a software which I can use to compress DVD files and then "expand" (for want of a better word) them later for burning to a DVD disc without loss of quality. I am trying to store as much DVD movies as I can on an external HDD.

Thanks for any answers.

[jimmalenko]

I hope I am in the correct forum area. I am wondering if there a software which I can use to compress DVD files and then "expand" (for want of a better word) them later for burning to a DVD disc without loss of quality. I am trying to store as much DVD movies as I can on an external HDD.

I can only think of winzip and winrar, but I doubt that they'll have much effect in reducing the size because of the compressed nature of DVD.

[lordsmurf]

No. They are already compressed.

[ZippyP.]

DVD video uses Mpeg2 compression. There are other compression types which can reduce the size while keeping an approximate quality level. Divx and Xvid spring to mind, they can achieve sizes 1/2 to 2/3 smaller than Mpeg2 with similar quality. However, it isn't possible (or practical) to convert twice (dvd>divx>dvd) without some quality loss. It would also involve some skill and quite a lot of computer time. However, if you just want to view the files on your PC, or if you have a Divx capable DVD player then converting to Divx might be a practical option.