Page 1 of DVD backups

I need advise on best way of backing up DVD`s. Does the phillips/Panasonic recorders allow for this. If not then whats the best way to back up your collection.

ps I have had one of my disc damaged and won`t play.

What DVD`s are you trying to backup?
If they are pre-recorded ones then there is a normaly some sort of copy protection (not macrovision, but something else).

The best way is to use a PC-based DVD writer - that way, you can make direct digital copies. There`s lots of software available which can "rip" DVDs to your hard drive (removing the copy protection in the process); and "squeeze" dual-layer films so they can fit onto a single DVD-R or DVD+R, yet retain all of the extras, soundtracks and menus from the original.

A standalone DVD recorder is great for making recordings from TV or from analogue VHS, but it`s pretty limited when it comes to recording from DVD. All you`ll end up with is an analogue copy with bog-standard stereo sound and no menus - not a `backup` as such.

Mike

Mike G,
I have a new "Aldi" Medion pc with pioneer dvd RW & sony ROM.
The software loaded in the pc is "Ahead Nero" & "Instantcopy" (Pinnacle?)
I am a newbie to copying dvd(for backup only),
could you pls guide me how to do a back up of a dvd to a single blank one, bearing in mind that I am new to this.
thanx in advance