Playing a DVD on computer or player?

by compound complex 4 Replies latest forum tech-support

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  compound complex

  Greetings!

  Initially, I was surprised that the drop-down list on Google re: the above is so long.

  My Mac plays movies flawlessly, but my DVD player does and doesn't. This appears to be a widespread problem. I get the problem with cranky players, given code reading, regional restrictions, unreliable communication between an older TV (mine) and player, etc.

  My question is this: What is the makeup of a computer that allows it to play movies (even somewhat scratched discs) that my player won't?

  THANKS!

  CC
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  Simon

  Probably just the difference in quality of the components and the error-correcting software. The PC has more power to burn than the inbuilt chips on a cheap DVD player (most are cheap).

  If it won't play at all then it may be the region locking thing on the DVD player but most can be unlocked to play discs from any region by entering a code (often just a combination of key-presses on the remote). This is because it's easier for the manufacturer to just do the region locking with software rather than manufacture different units for different regions.
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  compound complex

  Thanks, Simon!

  the error-correcting software

  That explains why my Mac will correct a problem -- a momentary pause due to some flaw, which is acknowledged, then resumption of movie. DVD player just freezes up totally. Or plays the entire movie, but in a stop-and-go manner.
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  Iown Mylife

  I watch DVDs on the portable player at the kitchen table. It is about 8 years old and works like new. We have a new one on the tv but I can't work it.

  Marina
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  compound complex

  Thanks, Marina:

  Yeah, can't work it! Me neither.

  So glad I kept my VHS tapes. Wish new movies were still available on tape. After 30 years, tapes still play. Sure, not with the clarity and special features of DVD, but they WORK!