How to Transfer DVDs to iPod for Free
- 1). Download a DVD-ripping freeware program. Examples include HandBrake, Magic DVD Rippper and WinX DVD Ripper (see links in the Resource section). The software costs nothing, and most are compatible with any operating system. If your DVD has a digital copy, skip Steps 1 through 5.
- 2). Open the freeware and place the DVD you want to transfer into your computer's disc drive. If you're using HandBrake or WinX DVD Ripper, it should automatically scan the disc and prepare it for you. With Magic DVD Ripper, select the "Copy Main Movie" option, then the audio and subtitle options you want on the movie.
- 3). Click the "Toggle Presets" button if you're using HandBrake, then select the setting you want from the list that appears. The default setting of "Normal" should work fine. To save space, you can pick one of the "iPod" or "iPhone" settings. Those settings will record a smaller version of the film to fit on the smaller iPod screen. If you're using WinX, click the tab labeled "to iPod/iPad" or "to iPhone." If you're using Magic DVD Ripper, you may skip this step.
- 4). Press the "Start" button and wait for the freeware to copy the movie onto your computer drive. The process often takes several hours.
- 5). Open iTunes and check to make sure the new movie is there. If it isn't, find the movie file on your hard drive, then click and drag it to the iTunes window. It should copy automatically.
- 6). Place the DVD in your disc drive and follow the instructions for obtaining a digital copy. If you've already transferred the movie via HandBrake, you can skip this step.
- 7). Connect the iPod to your computer with the USB cable that came with it. You should see a little symbol of the iPod appear in the left column of iTunes.
- 8). Click on the iPod symbol, then click on the "Movies" tab in the top center of the screen. A list of all the movies on iTunes should appear, including the one from the DVD you just copied.
- 9). Check the box next to the movie you want to transfer (a check mark should appear in it), then click on the "Sync" button in the lower left corner of the screen. ITunes will begin transferring the DVD to the iPod.
- 10
Wait until the computer prompts you, then disconnect the iPod and click on the "Video" file, followed by the "Movie" file. You should be able to play it on your iPod without a problem.
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