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More DVD Player and Recorder Basics

More information to get you started in DVD. Includes articles on Region Codes, Progressive Scan, hook-up information and more.
The Case of the Disappearing DVD Recorder
Have you shopped for a DVD Recorder recently (2009) and have found slim-pickens on store shelves? It is not your imagination. While DVD recorders are thriving in other parts of the World and Blu-ray Disc recorders are all the rage in Japan and being introduced in several other markets, the U.S. is being left out of the video recording equation; and it is being left out on purpose. For more on thi…
Upscaling DVD Players vs Upscaling HDTVs
Upscaling DVD Players vs Upscaling HDTVs. Upscaling DVD players have become very popular with consumers that own HDTVs. However, the fact is that HDTVs have built-in scalers as well. This fact often gives way to comments that upscaling DVD players aren't needed, because HDTVs will upscale all incoming signals to their native display resolution anyway. To find out if this is true, read my Quik Tip.
The Difference Between Commerical DVDs and DVDs You Make With a DVD Recorder
DVD Recording formats are similar but, not the same as the commercial DVD format you buy in store, which is referred to as DVD-Video. The main difference lies in the way the DVDs are made. For additional details, read my Quick Tip: What Makes Home Recorded DVDs Different Than Commercial DVDs.
Region Codes: DVD's Dirty Secret
The DVD world is divided into eight regions. According to some, this is a means of providing copyright protection and preserve international film distribution arrangements, as well as prevent "illegal" copying. However, is it also a plot by movie companies to command higher prices for DVDs overseas?
Set up and Use an RF Modulator with a DVD Player and a Television with Only Antenna/Cable TV Connections
DVD is becoming so popular that many consumers are either putting units in kids rooms and offices or otherwise connecting them to older or second TVs that do not have the proper audio/video inputs. However, there is a solution to this dilemma - the RF Modulator. The following article shows how you can use an RF modulator to connect your old TV with your new DVD player.
Connecting Both a DVD Recorder and a VCR to Your Television - Adding a DVD Recorder to Your Current Television - VCR Setup
With the increasing popularity DVD recorders, many consumers are facing the dilemma as two how to add a a new DVD recorder to their current VCR and Television setup simply. In the following article I explain some options that will make this task easier.
Progressive Scan - What You Need To Know About Progressive Scan
DVD has not only changed the way we watch video content, but has changed the way we set up our video and audio components. The consumer is now faced not only with standard video hookups for DVD, but also has the option of progressive scan video setup. In this article I present a basic overview of progressive scan and why it is important to the enjoyment of your home theater experience.
Blu-ray and HD-DVD - What You Need To Know About The Blu-Ray and HD-DVD High Definition DVD Formats
Ever since DVD was introduced in 1997, engineers and manufacturers have been working on its eventual replacement. Although DVD as we know it today will be around for some time to come, the advent of high definition DVD recording and playback for consumers will make its official U.S. debut soon. Here is an overview of the two main high definition DVD formats: Blu-ray and HD-DVD.
DVD Players and RF Modulators
DVD is becoming so popular that many consumers are either putting units in kids rooms and offices or otherwise connecting them to older or second TVs that do not have the proper audio/video inputs. However, there is a solution to this dilemma, the addition of an RF Modulator.
DVD Rot: Fact Or Fiction?
DVD is the most successful home entertainment technology for watching movies to date and has also proven to be an excellent storage medium for computer data. However, it isn't without some faults.
Throwaway DVDs
"Your DVD Will Become Unplayable In 48 Hours..." Disney is heading up a new strategy to market disposable DVDs. Check out details and my perspective on this issue.
Anamorphic DVD Explained - The Projector Pros
An excellent explanation of what is meant by "anamorphic DVD" and how it affects your DVD viewing. Posted by The Projector Pros.
British Television History
LaserDisc and DVD are not the first Disc based video systems, neither is the concept of High Resolution TV. Check out the contributions of the U.K. to the development of Television Technology.
DVD Connection Guide
Having trouble connecting your new DVD player to the rest of your system? Here is a helpful guide from Crutchfield.
DVD Region Code Lock
An explanation of DVD Region Codes and what that means for the consumer. Site presented by Code Free DVD.
DVD+ReWritable
Here is a great resource site on the new DVD+RW recordable DVD format. This site answers all your questions regarding DVD+RW and how it relates to the current DVD play and DVD-rom formats.
DVD+RW: Unofficial Site
Great resource site on the state of DVD+RW DVD recording format. Latest info on technology and products.
HDDVD.org
Keep up with the latest news on high definition DVD.
How Does a DVD Work?
An overview of how a DVD works, presented by Marshall Brain of How Stuff Works.
DVD Players and Recorders - What's Ahead For DVD In 2004
DVD is unequivocally, the most successful consumer electronics product of all time. In six short years, DVD players are in over 35% of U.S. homes (some of which now have more than one player), and from the U.S. to Afghanistan, millions of DVD players also in use around the world. How long can this momentum continue? Find out what lies ahead for DVD in my report.

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