How to Convert Your DVD to AVI

Today it is possible to convert a DVD to AVI and AVI to DVD format. Both tasks and many others now can be done with a single piece of video editing software.

AVI is the type of video formats commonly used today, and you can use special software called a ripper to convert DVD to AVI format to DVD with one click.

Special software for conversion

Most high-quality DVD, and consequently it is a great format. The average DVD can store 4 GB of content. You can use a special video software to change the contents of DVD to MPG, AVI or file with the same quality from the DVD but it takes up less space.

Software is user-friendly interface

Video software has a friendly interface that guides you through a step-by-step process of converting DVD to AVI format. You must first insert the DVD into the DVD drive, then run the program. If the DVD files are stored on the computer itself, you can start extracting the files from your computer immediately.

Parameter Setting

You can make settings in the dialog box input parameters and the audio settings dialog. In the dialog box output settings, you can select the parameters on whether to convert AVI or MPG. You can even choose the size of the screen, the video format [PAL or NTSC], and the level of audio quality.

Compression Method

Audio compression methods such as LAME MP3 can be used where good sound quality and size, small voice. You can set the output settings in the dialog settings export You can also choose settings for display on the monitor screen or monitor normal. Next is the setting for the maximum number of frames. You can leave the other settings at their default values are primarily designed for use by professionals only.

Savings at Your Prefer Location

You can choose to browse the files in the destination folder where you want the end of the AVI file will be saved. Click the record button and the conversion process will begin. You can also use a conversion software to convert audio files from DVD to MP # format or other formats such as FLV and MP4. The converted AVI files can then be stored on a computer or portable music player.

Use Decryptor

You can also convert DVD to AVI using the small Division DVD. Use this to convert only part of the DVD you want to see. If an error is made in the conversion to AVI format, for the protection of copyright extra, you can download DVD decoder as code breaker and remove the protection.

Most software for converting DVD to AVI is available at a very reasonable price – only professional video software like Pinnacle Studio with sophisticated functions and settings you will return a few hundred dollars.

Great Title from Bioware: Dragon Age Origins

If you are a fan of Bioware’s PC role playing game Baldur’s Gate, this one will be right up your alley. You can choose from one of five unique origins story and begin an epic journey that will take you across the land of Ferelden. You’ll meet memorable characters and partake in battle with dangerous foes and explote exotic places.

The game has a deep combat system that can be played either in turn-based fashion or in real time. You can also take up to three other party members into combat and use skills or spells to gain an edge in battle.

Dragon Age places players in the hot seat as decisions players make will inevitably affect direction. So if you’re looking for an epic role-playing game to sink your teeth into Dragon Age: Origins is the one to look out for.

This game is available in PC, Xbox360 and also Playstation 3.

Product Features

  • Scalable combat options that let you decide the level of control you have over your party, including NPCs. Issue orders, set your own tactical AI, or take control of any party member to lead the charge.
  • 6 possible playable preludes known as ‘Origin Stories’ which along with your play, define how your hero character will see the world, how it sees you and sets the tone for the entire story.
  • Travel across the vast and varied lands of Ferelden; from the conspiratorial halls of the last great dwarven city, Orzammar, to the untamed snarls of the Korcari Wilds.
  • Dragon Age: Origins will give you deep character customization options including: class, race, appearance, abilities, and equipment.
  • At the heart of the storm sweeping across Ferelden. Decide the fate of nations, people and, ultimately, yourself. Just remember: for every choice, there is a consequence.

What’s good:

Bioware RPG’s always have great stories with deep background and entertaining character interactions. This one does not disappoint. New for this game are multiple character opening stories– hence the “origins” in the title. Depending on your class and race, you experience an extended opening that really sets the stage for your character and gives you something to think about. The opening for the mage included two quests to play through and a several difficult decisions to make before it merged with the main story line.

Voice acting is excellent, graphics are good and 1080p (though nothing like Metal Gear Solid or GTA4). Combat is fast, furious, and just a little out of control– and exciting.

What’s bad:

I had hoped to see the next generation of RPG, but the game’s architecture feels like reused modules from other Bioware games. Character gen is from Mass Effect, 3rd person view and movement from KOTOR, inventory mechanics and interface much like Baldur’s Gate. It’s all competently designed, but feels a little worn. But maybe Bioware is suffering from Pixar Syndrome – if it doesn’t outdo itself with each new release it seems plain.

My only real complaint is that character attributes and abilities are not sufficiently explained. The small paper manual says things are explained in detail in the in-game help but that is not the case.

Lastly:

Be aware that this game isn’t suitable for kids. It’s a mature game with some disturbing subject matter– that’s why Bioware calls it a “dark fantasy.” Kudos to Bioware for aiming for a serious game, but know what you’re buying before putting it on the holiday gift list for your little ones. (Wait until after they’re in bed and have an epic time playing it yourself!)

Tom Tom iPhone Car Kit

Overview

The TomTom app on your iPhone 3GS or iPhone 3G puts award-winning technology at your fingertips, like IQ Routes which gives you the smartest, most efficient route any time of day. That’s just the beginning. Combine it with the TomTom Car Kit to experience enhanced GPS performance for the ultimate in-car navigation.

TomTom Car Kit features

Secure docking
TomTom’s specially designed, award-winning EasyPort mount attaches your iPhone securely to your windscreen or dashboard – perfectly within reach. It lets you rotate the screen for widescreen route display. And it folds flat for easy moves from car to car.

Enhanced GPS performance
The TomTom car kit’s built-in receiver increases the GPS performance of your iPhone to give you a truly reliable signal – even in high-rise urban areas.

Clear voice instructions
With the built-in volume controls and superior speaker, you’ll hear every voice instruction loud and clear – so you’ll never miss a thing.

Easy charging
Dock your iPhone 3GS in the mount to charge it as you drive, so it’s always fully charged and ready to go.

Hands-free calling
Receive calls without taking your eyes off the road, using the built-in extra-sensitive microphone and speaker. And the app automatically starts navigating again as soon as the call ends.

Your music on the move
With the audio out connector you can play all your favorite songs through your car’s audio system with the optional audio cable*. It even fades music out when receiving calls and giving directions.
* Requires compatible car audio system

Tap and go
Using the multi-touch display on your iPhone 3GS or 3G, you can tap your way from A to B – so you get all the best routes. Scroll through the menu, or pinch to zoom in and out on a map.

Go your own way
See your route, your way. Simply rotate from portrait to landscape to get an easier view of the road ahead.

Meet friends and find a place to eat
Find an entry in your iPhone contacts list, and the TomTom app directs you there. Or choose a restaurant, call to reserve your table, then follow the directions.

The smartest routes
The shortest route isn’t always the fastest. TomTom IQ Routes always gives you the most efficient route. It’s the only app that uses the driving experiences of millions of drivers to base routes on actual road speed data.

The world at your fingertips
Always be prepared. The TomTom app comes with an up-to-date, detailed map – and you can add worldwide locations to suit you.

Technical Specifications

Audio out: 3.5 mm
Volume control: Yes
Portrait/Landscape support: Yes
Windscreen and dashboard mounting: Yes
iPhone charging via CLA: Yes
Dimensions: 5.17 x 2.7 x 1.96 in./131.43 x 68.68 x 49.86 mm
Weight: 4.13 oz./117 g

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Packing more action per minute than a summer blockbuster, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves is one of the must have action games for Playstation 3 owners.

As adventurer and all around rogue Nathan Drake, you are in for another adventure – this time in search for Marco Polo’s treasure. Your journey will take across many locales from the jungles of Borneo to the snowy peaks of Tiber. Featuring some truly magnificent set pieces set that you simply have to see, Uncharted 2 also has you be exploring ancient temples and engage in thrilling fun battles on moving trains.

The game comes with a decent online competitive multiplayer mode plus co-op mode so you can tackle missions together with friends. Without a doubt, Uncharted 2 is one helluva rollercoaster ride for your Playstation 3 that you definitely won’t want to miss.

Game features

  • New functionality including the ability to remain with your friends while matchmaking; map customization and the pooling funds gathered in different modes for use in unlocking content and upgrades.
  • An game world layout that allows players to take an aggressive or new stealth approach to combat.
  • Free-flowing “traversal gunplay” that adds a unique vertical element to standard 3rd-person shooting mechanics.
  • Award-winning cinematic storytelling, incorporating new and familiar characters, as well as all new and varied play environments.
  • A wide array of gameplay modes including a robust single player campaign and a franchise first online multiplayer modes including competitive and cooperative play options.

Gameplay

Although gameplay in Among Thieves is similar to that of the previous game, there are several major differences. The most important of these is the addition of several online multiplayer options. Unfortunately, no offline multiplayer could be included in the game due to the impact local split-screening has on the game’s graphical quality. Thankfully though, the online modes included cover both co-op and competitive play. See the feature list below for details on these. In addition to play modes players can also expect a wealth of new gameplay features including a new stealth gameplay mechanic and altered climbing mechanic–both of which are extended to the AI of enemies; the ability to create cover by flipping over certain found items; the use of riot shields for defense and offense; and a complete lack of loading screens.

How to Update Your Blu-Ray Player

Questions:

I have a Blu-ray DVD player from 2007, but when I try to play certain discs, it tells me that the player cannot read that disc and needs to be upgraded. What should I do?

Answer:

Blu-ray players first appeared in 206 but those sold then had fewer features and capabilities. Some older units may even be too quirky to play certain movie discs properly.

You can check the manufacture’s web site for any technical posting concerning your model. Many firms advise updating the players firmware (the software installed inside the Blu-ray hardware that allows it to read and play discs) as a first troubleshooting step.

The process may vary depending on the player, but it typically involves downloading a firmware file to your computer, burning a CD of the files and then inserting that CD into the Blu-ray player to copy the update to the player’s firmware.

Updating the firmware on an older Blu-ray player won’t automatically let it work with all the advanced features of the newer discs, but it could allow the older player to at least play the main video.

Some discs may never work properly. If you start by updating the player’s firmware, however you might be able to get some discs to work.

Adapted from NYT QN2YDJEDUYST