Can DVD players play avi files?

such as xvid files?

 

If you purchase one that specifies that it can play DivX/XviD, otherwise, no.

 

if it can't i should convert avi to vcd right?

 

Depends on the quality of the original.
VCD, SVCD, or DVD.

 

Yes, you'd better convert your avi files to vcd/svcd/dvd first, and then play them on your DVD players.
By the way, you can download a trial version of winavi from http://www.winavi.com to do this job!

 

Is there any way to get rid of the ad square in the middle of the screen? Patches or cracks around for this program?

 

WinAVI sucks. Try VSO Divx to DVD (it's free, with no ads, or logos in your face).