Hi All, There has been a lot of discussion recently regarding the recommended process for backing up newer DVDs with more sophisticated encryption when using freeware. Some threads describe using Fab + Vobblanker + Shrink + DVD Decrypter. I'm not sure of the benefits or applicability of using Vobblanker in the sequence described in those threads. My personal experience has been that Fab to HD, Shrink to compress and DVDD to burn have produced excellent results. So my question is when is it necessary to use VOB Blanker and what different results would I observe if I ran the FAB HD results through it first before using Shrink?
G1nger Ok, lets say you're trying to backup a movie and shrink or DVD decrypter can't do it, you then use DVDFab to rip the DVD files to your HDD, you now try and open the files created by DVDFab with shrink but shrink gives you an error while trying to open the files. When this happens, it's time to use vobblanker, vobblanker will [bold]correct file structure errors and remove dummy/fake cells from certain video title sets that are put there as part of the encryption process[/bold], once these problems are corrected, DVD shrink should have no problem opening the files and doing it's job. [bold]Thus giving you the; Fab + Vobblanker + Shrink + DVD Decrypter; scenario[/bold] Remember, DVDFab isn't a cure all, it isn't perfect and it too will at some point need some help completing the job. If after using DVDFab, shrink opens the files without producing an error, then use the DVDFab + DVD shrink + DVD decrypter(to burn iso) plan of attack. Cheers John.
Hi John, Thanks for your explanation. Makes perfect sense. I guess I'm lucky in that I've never encountered a situation that has required me to use it..but I'm glad to know what to do if it happens. G1
@G1nger With the new encrypted protections from ARccOS and RipGuard (fake PGC, invalid structure, etc.), I highly recommend using VobBlanker to process the VIDEO_TS.IFO file. In addition, for "security" purpose and to be on the safe side, it's wise/best to always post "process" your already ripped "VIDEO_TS.IFO" through VobBlanker once DVDFAB Decrypter is successfully completed. VobBlanker will fix/correct any "invalid data structures, dummy cells, invalid navigation structures, fake pgcs, etc.", further more you can "blank" out any unwanted junks (i.e. FBI Warnings, rating logos/screens, previews/trailers, etc.) VobBlanker only take like 5 minutes to "process" the actual VIDEO_TS.IFO file and create a true VIDEO_TS file/movie (meaning free of junks) in result. Once it's completed, simply continue on with your desire "transcoders" or "encoders" engines as usual. Again, I've been using DVDFAB Decrypter (FREE and it's the best ripper at the moment) + VobBlanker (FREE and powerful, one of the strongest craps/junks processing tool) and I've never experienced any issues whatsoever. Best of lucks to you and happy burning!
Hi Alkohol, Thanks for the information. Yes it was your posts that led me to Vobblanker in the first place. I just wasn't too sure if it really made the extra difference in the process. I'll give it a try during my next backup. G1
