Think I need a codec / filter

[Plot1]

While I know a reasonable amount about PCs, I'd not tried playing a dvd on one until a few days ago, and although I've looked through some useful stuff on this site and elsewhere, I still don't know much about the subject.

On trying to play a standard retail DVD movie (vob file), Real Player (v10.5 under w2k) was keen to play it, but I got only audio, with chirps from the speakers every few seconds - due copy protection I presume?

On loading the GPL MPEG-1/2 DirectShow Decoder Filter from http://sourceforge.net/projects/gplmpgdec/ I get video too, but seriously scrambled - also copy protection, I guess, since this filter "can be used as DVD decoder for unencrypted discs" only.

So I guess I need alternative filters that can unencrypt the dvd? If so, where would I be able to find one that is freeware or inexpensive?

Your assistance would be appreciated....

[jmet]

PowerDVD - http://www.digital-digest.com/dvd/do...werdvd_48.html

WinDVD - http://www.intervideo.com/jsp/WinDVD_Profile.jsp

[Plot1]

I'm sure they are both fine products - I came across a number of reviews mentioning them both - but is there no low cost way of getting playback via Real Player / Zoom Player or similar?

[jmet]

Windows Media Player which is bundled with all Microsoft's OS's, is suppose to be capable of playing DVD's.

[Plot1]

Gave Windows Media Player a try, but I only get small clips of the soundtrack with the previously mentioned chirping, and no video...

...though I see on the MS Web site (http://www.microsoft.com/windows/win...spx#DVDDecoder) that a decoder is required for WMP too, and the lowest cost solution for w2k is PowerDVD SE. Unless anyone can suggest an open source alternative, I guess I'll give it a try.