DVD ripper software programs have exploded in popularity. They are not too popular among movie production companies, but they are not illegal to use. What a DVD Ripper does is simply this: Copy a DVD movie from a DVD onto your computer hard drive. The main reason people copy their movies: To use as back-ups. This way, they can archive the costly master discs and not worry about damage or theft. If anything happens to the copy, you can quickly make another one. DVD ripper software programs are relatively inexpensive � prices range from approximately $39.99 - $79.99 USD. The more features you want, the more you pay.

Before you buy your ripper software, be sure that it is compatible with your computer. Most computers can easily handle DVD ripper software - you will need about 1 GB of free space to install the ripper. More space is better for many reasons, but 1 GB will do the trick. Another important consideration: does the DVD ripper software come with burning software? If you intend to �burn� your final product, you will need this software. Most good ripper software does come with a burner; if not, however, Nero has been rated highly in the burner category.

Bundled with Cloner 5 is the ability to convert your DVDs to multiple formats using DVD to AVI, DVD to MPEG and DVD to SVCD. This would typically require additional expensive software � it is included with DVD Cloner 5. One of the best features is the ability to recover damaged DVDs. DVD Cloner 5 will recover the damaged data (i.e. bad sectors or scratches) and restore the original to your burned copy. This software also has the ability to copy to your hard drive, which is not only convenient and useful; it is energy-saving particularly for laptops.

Which formats can the ripper handle and which do you need it to handle? Most DVD Ripper Software should be able to handle AVI, WMX, MP4, MP3, VCD and SVCD. Is the program compatible with most computers and DVD burners? These are just a few things to think about. Do a little homework upfront and you will get the product that meets your total needs.

DVD Cloner 5 is an award-winning ripper software program. Not only does it make great quality copies very quickly, you are given the option to copy bonus footage, subtitles, audio, menus and language. This cloner has the ability to decrypt CSS encryption without additional downloads required.

DVD Cloner 5 comes with many other features as well, including the ability to copy directly to your hard drive. This is a great energy saver, especially if you are working with a laptop. DVD Cloner 5 can copy HD and Blue-ray discs � this is a feature not readily available on most software programs.

Easy to use, easy to install, packed with features and produces perfect 1:1 DVD copies. It is not difficult to understand why DVD Cloner 5 is at the head of the class.

Isaiah Henry is an expert on dvd software such as dvd ripper and copy dvd. Copy DVDs at www.dvdshrinknow.com with programs. Ask quesions and give experiences on our dvd forum.