Multi-region DVD-ROM question.... (1 Viewer)

[mark_d]

I know, I know - this has probably been asked a million times already, but a search didn't help...
With Star Wars having compelled me to shell out for QT5 Pro (I'm actually glad I did it eventually - no more dicking around in caches) I'm gonna buy a DVD-ROM drive today in preparation for the DVD exclusive Episode II trailer.
I'll need to be multi region capable, so what software should I be looking at?
Are there any good FAQs or websites for the DVD-ROM newbie?
My PC is an ageing PIII450 with a Voodoo3 3000.
TIA,
Mark

 

[Ian Wilson]

This site Link Removed
provides a list of firmware and hacks to make your drive region free. Look at the list before you buy - some drives are impossible to make region free. You should judge any drive you're looking at by the amount of noise it makes, slot loaders tend to be noisier than tray. I've just picked up an ASUS E-616 which is whisper quiet compared with the two previous drives I owned. Note: It's not listed as being region free, but pressing Play and stop together on bootup resets the region counter.
AVS forum www.avsforum.com has an enormous section devoted to HTPC's.
Ian

 

[mark_d]

Thanks, Ian.
As it happens, I just went and bought the cheapest in the shop - an LG 8160. I have since found that I will not be able to make it multi-region, but as it didn't break the bank (50 quid) and my movie collection is primarily region 1, I will not lose any sleep.
Thanks for the reply. I had (obviously) not realised that DVD-ROM drives had restrictions in hardware.
BTW, it's a quiet drive and I'm surprised at how watchable movies are on my meagre machine. What it does highlight, however, is the enormous amount of overscan on my 16:9 Sony KV32FX20...
Mark

 

[Darren Lewis]

Mark, the earlier DVD-ROM drives were region free. Windows 2000 has region coding in the DVD properties, but that can be bypassed.
Have a look at DVD Infomatrix for some more advice.