ConvertXtoDVD v4 Manual
ConvertXtoDVD v4 Manual
ConvertXtoDVD v4 Manual
ConvertXtoDVD 4 Manual
ConvertXtoDVD is an all-in-one, high-quality and fast video conversion and burning software,
capable of converting most popular video, audio and subtitle formats to DVD-5/9.
For a list of supported formats, see Key features
Note: This guide has been written by hansK, assisted by toaddub,
official beta testers for VSO products, and has been validated by VSO.
http://www.vso-software.fr/
v4.0.9.322a (rev. 3)
ConvertXtoDVD Copyright 2005-2009 VSO Software SARL, France. All rights reserved.
All trademarks, logos, brand names, pictures etc. are the rightful properties of their respective owners.
Introduction TopNext
Here is a list of some of ConvertXtoDVD's key features:
Supported video formats: AVI, DivX, XviD, MOV, MKV, FLV, MPEG-1, MPEG2-, MPEG-4, NSV, DVR-MS,
TS, IFO, VOB, ASF, WMV, RealMedia, RM, RMVB, OGM, existing files from digital camcorders, TV/Sat,
capture cards, etc. No external codecs required.
Supported audio formats (internal and external): AC3, DTS, PCM, OGG, MP3, WMA and more...
Automatically or manually select audio output format.
Supported subtitle files (internal and external): SRT, .SUB (Opensubtitles), .SUB/IDX, .SSA with color and
font selection, and supports tags like italic, bold.
For a list of all currently supported formats, see this link: http://www.vso-
software.fr/products/convert_x_to_dvd/video-format-support.php
DVD output in NTSC or PAL, selection of Aspect ratio (Widescreen 16:9, Fullscreen 4:3), and DVD
resolution (Full D1, Broadcast D1, Half D1, SIF), or choose automatic for all choices listed above.
Convert video from NTSC to PAL, or PAL to NTSC.
Have DVD menus with different (pre-defined) templates available, with options to add background video,
image and/or audio, have chapter and audio/subtitle menus, and customize various DVD playback options.
Conversion quality indicator, indicating the resulting quality of the conversion vs. amount of data to be
converted.
Fast and quality encoder, typically less than 1 hour for converting a movie, and support for multi-core
processors!
2-Pass encoding
Resize filters
Include burning engine with burn speed control, choice of SAO or packet writing methods, and output to
DVD5 (single) and DVD9 (double layer) formats as well as ISO format.
Custom and/or automatic chapter creation with markers in preview window.
Multiple file merging abilities.
Video pre-processing settings like video resize (pad/crop) and de-interlacing options.
Multilingual User Interface in available languages.
Optimized for Windows 2000 / XP / Vista 32-bit and 64bits / Windows7 (No known problems when using
emulation software under systems like Linux, MAC, etc.)
Key features PreviousTopNext
The following are the minimum system requirements to run ConvertXtoDVD. We do not recommend running the
software on a computer not meeting these requirements, as the performance will be very poor.
Processor:Intel Pentium III or AMD Athlon XP (2000+)
Memory:512 MB RAM (running Windows 2000/XP)
1 GB RAM (running Windows Vista)
Graphics:Color video card / on board. NO DirectX required.
Screen resolution:1024 x 768, 96 dpi
Sound:PCI 16 bit sound card
Hard drive:Hard Disc drive with at least 4.3 GB space free
Burner:DVD burner with latest firmware released by the manufacturer
Operating System:Windows 2000 SP4
Windows XP SP2
Windows Vista. Its highly recommended that Vista users use and admin account when
using convertxtodvd
Windows 7
Requirements PreviousTopNext
The first step during the installation process is to select the language you want to use during this process:
The setup wizard announces the version you are about to install and any suggestions you should follow during
installation.
Select that you accept the agreement.
Not accepting leads to cancel the installation.
Installation of program PreviousTopNext
Select the folder where you would like ConvertXtoDVD to be installed. We recommend installing to the default
folder proposed.
Next, you have to select the video standard you would like ConvertXtoDVD to use for output. Select the region
where you live.
READ the manual of your DVD player for proper setting.
Select the folder where you would like the Start Menu folder to be created:
Check the options you would like to be set up during installation:
Some additional information about media statistics (last option):
In order to improve the quality of our software, and to establish a chart of good media based on the end user's
experience, we are collecting media and hardware information.
Each time a burn process has been finished, information about the process (software version, used writer and
media, success/failure) is submitted to our server.
As an internet connection is required, you should only activate this feature if you have a permanent connection.
NOTE: We do not collect any information that may help to identify a given computer or person!
A summary of what will be done during installation:
Shows the version history of ConvertXtoDVD, i.e. a list of bugs fixed and features added:
Can also later be viewed at C:\Program Files\VSO\ConvertX\4 (default installation folder) or at your chosen
installation folder, and select file History.txt
When the installation is finished, you can choose to launch ConvertXtoDVD immediately:
When opening ConvertXtoDVD for the first time, you will see the above trial window giving you 3 choices:
1. Click Try to try the software. Any file converted will contain a watermark (message place on video) that will be
displayed when watching the DVD stating a trial version was used for the conversion.
2. Click Buy to buy a license key by connecting via the internet to the shop page.
3. Enter your personal license key, if you already have one, into the license entry box and click Activate to verify
registration.
Note: If you own a license to the precedent version, you will need a new license key. J ust click the blue link
"Click here if you have an old key" and follow the instructions on the website. If your email address has
changed since your first purchase you will need to write to VSO Software using their contact form and provide
them with your old and new email address in order to be recognized in their database.
After the trial window, the next thing to appear is the update prompt. It allows you to decide if ConvertXtoDVD
should check for update on the internet. We recommend using the latest version available in order to take
advantage of the latest added features and bug corrections. If you do not want to be prompt for updates, check Do
not ask again to save your choice and bypass the prompt in the future. Please allow ConvertXtoDVD access to
the internet in your firewall settings if required.
Software Registration PreviousTopNext
Note: You can also check for updates manually via Help Check update from the main window.
To fully uninstall the software and remove any trace of the program, use cleanvso.exe.
Here's a direct download link for cleanvso.exe:
http://download2.vso-software.fr/CleanVSO.exe
Or you can download the program in this thread:
http://forums.vso-software.fr/tool-to-completely-uninstall-a-vso-software-product-t3918.html
Note: cleanvso is a general tool that removes all traces of selected VSO software, that is both the installation
folder and registry keys. Using cleanvso is needed sometimes when some keys get corrupted and cause issues.
How to uninstall completely:
1. Start the application cleanvso.exe. Select the program you want to un-install.
2. Check [x] Uninstall and [x] Delete settings. This will delete the installed program folder and all relevant
registry keys, including your license key.
3. Click Close when uninstallation process is complete.
Uninstallation of program PreviousTopNext
3. Click Close when uninstallation process is complete.
4. Reboot your PC.
To contact us, visit our website at: http://www.vso-software.fr
On the top navigation bar click on the Support section. Here you will find a couple of sections that may already
provide you with a solution for your problem or question. For all any unanswered questions, suggestions, or bug
reports please use the technical support form listed on this page.
Technical support
When contacting the technical support you actually download a small file called vsorep.exe. Save this file and
double click on "vsorep.exe" to start filling out the form (name, email, and mini description of the problem). If you
have any live chat tools like Windows Live Messenger / Yahoo / Skype you use, provide this contact information in
the message as you could also be contacted this way by VSO software in order to trouble shoot your problems or
for you to elaborate more on your problem.
The VSORep tool automatically collects and sends the following information to a VSO Software technician along
with your message with the sole purpose of understanding the context and settings you are using in the software
in order to solve problems faster:
The operating system, CPU
DirectX installation
List of drives
The registry keys related to only our software
VSO software log files and crash files
The free space available on your hard drive, and the RAM
List of codecs installed and DirectShow Filters
List of potential incompatible applications
General Inquiry
You may also contact us by sending in a general inquiry by filling out the contact form hosted on the VSO
webpage.
Link: http://www.vso-software.fr/contactform.php
If your questions are regarding the experience you had with the software we will ask you to use the VSORep Tool
or to manually send in your log file if you had difficulties using the VSORep tool.
Check out the VSO Forums to ask your problem or research your situation. The forum is a place where users of a
wide variety of levels share their experiences, solutions and work-arounds for using our software.
http://forums.vso-software.fr/
Office hours
We are located in France (UTC/GMT +1 hour)
Office opened Mon-Fri 9:30 am - 5:30 PM (for phone support)
Email + other technical support demands maybe treated on the weekend . . do not wait to send questions only
during office hours.
License key retrieval, updates+upgrades, downloads, and registration information can be sent automatically
24H/7days a week using this
- click to Get Lost keys + downloads
- click to Check for upgrades + upgrade offers
Contacting Us PreviousTopNext
You can purchase ConvertXtoDVD online at with the following link:
http://www.vso-software.fr/shop.php
License keys are sent by email immediately after the payment is received.
- Each license allows one year of free upgrades beginning from the date of purchase: Use following link:
http://www.vso-software.fr/upgrade.php
- If you would like to upgrade your license key status after 1 year is up enter your email address on the following
link to be presented with a special upgrade offer:
http://www.vso-software.fr/upgrade.php
Of course you can continue to use the last working version of your product without paying any additional cost. The
version does not expire after one year. I.e. you can continue using an old version after a year if you do not want to
pay for an upgrade.
Note: ConvertXtoDVD is not available in retail stores.
How To Buy the software PreviousTopNext
The Main Window has five major components. Click on the link to see the details:
1] Menu bar (1)
2] Vertical toolbar (2)
3] Tree view window (3)
4] Video preview window (4)
5] Log window (5)
Resize sub-windows
You can resize the sub-windows using the mouse indicator at the red lines.
Main Window view PreviousTopNext
Total project time
Once you have added file(s), the bottom line shows you the total project time.
The menu bar provides quick access to the program's top-level functions and settings. Each menu has several
sub-menus and is explained separately.
File
Action
Settings
Window
Help
Convert / Cancel:
Start / Stop the conversion of your created project. Same function as the button in the middle of the Main
menu window.
Pause conversion:
Pause the conversion at any time during the conversion process.
Note: Enables only when there's a conversion.
Conversion priority:
Set how much of CPU resources for ConvertXtoDVD to perform its task compared to other processes
running on your computer. The higher the conversion priority level, the quicker the task will be done but
the slower the response for other processes.
Note: Enables only when there's a conversion.
Shutdown PC when finished:
Check this option if you want ConvertXtoDVD to shutdown your computer automatically when the
conversion has finished.
Close program when finished:
Check this option if you want ConvertXtoDVD to close itself when the conversion has finished.
Minimize to tray icon:
Action menu PreviousTopNext
Hide the actual display of the program and show only as a icon in the tray bar.
Move selected titleset up one position (Ctrl + Up):
Move a selected titleset up one position in the Tree View window. The titleset number will be
decremented by one. e.g. Titleset #2 now becomes Titleset #1.
Note: Enables only when 1) Titleset #2 and above is selected and there are at least 2 titlesets in the
project, or 2) conversion has not started.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the Vertical
Toolbar.
Move this titleset down one position (Ctrl + Down):
Move a selected titleset down one position in the Tree View window. The titleset number will be
incremented by one. e.g. Titleset #1 now becomes Titleset #2.
Note: Enables only when 1) the next-to-last titleset is selected and there are at least 2 titlesets in the
project, or 2) conversion has not started.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the Vertical
Toolbar.
Burn an already converted project (burn a ready DVD video structure):
Select an already converted project (VIDEO_TS stored in the working folder that is set in General tab at
Settings) and burn it directly to DVD media.
This option can also burn any valid DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS=IFO, BUP, VOB) or ISO file that are not
created by ConvertXtoDVD.
You can only select one(1) VIDEO_TS folder as that is what the standard DVD video disc specifications
allows.(The fully finished result is inside this folder)
Note: ISO file burning with the following limitation:
The user still select a folder, and if this folder contain an ISO file, it'll be used in priority.
If the folder contains several ISO files, the first one will be used.
Note: Disables only when there's a conversion.
The options in the Settings menu are the basic settings that are pre-loaded at the start of the application. You can
also access the Settings menu in the Vertical Toolbar section of the Main Window.
Each of these options are further explained in the Settings menu topics.
Reset form positions
Clicking here will bring back the standard sizes of all windows, the docking and positions at screen.
The vertical toolbar is located on the right side of the Tree View window. This is meant for quick and easy access
to most commonly used functions.
Add video file(s) (Ins):
Select the video file you want to convert and it will be added to the Tree View window. It will be shown as
Titleset #1, followed by estimated time duration and file name. Every additional file added will have the
next titleset number incremented, e.g. Titleset #2, #3, etc.
Note: DVD specification allows only a maximum of 99 titlesets to be added.
Note: Disables when there's a conversion.
Merge more files to this titleset (Ctrl + A):
Join several files together so they will play seamlessly as one titleset. More details are further explained
in Merge window editing topic.
Once a video file is added, select it (highlight the Titleset #) and click on this function to merge another
file to it.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the File
menu.
Note: Disables when there's a conversion.
Remove selected titleset (Del):
Remove the selected titleset in the Tree View window from the current project. The original file still exists
on your hard drive.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the File
menu.
Note: Disables when there's a conversion.
Expand/collapse the first branch in the tree view:
Expand or collapse the first (top level) branch/node in the the tree view.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node.
Move this titleset up one position (Ctrl + Up):
Move a selected titleset up one position in the Tree View window. The titleset number will be
decremented by one. e.g. Titleset #2 now becomes Titleset #1.
Note: Enables only when 1) Titleset #2 and above is selected and there are at least 2 titlesets in the
project, or 2) conversion has not started.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the Action
menu.
Vertical Toolbar PreviousTopNext
Move this titleset down one position (Ctrl + Down):
Move a selected titleset down one position in the Tree View window. The titleset number will be
incremented by one. e.g. Titleset #1 now becomes Titleset #2.
Note: Enables only when 1) the next-to-last titleset and above is selected and there are at least 2
titlesets in the project, or 2) conversion has not started.
This function is also available via context menu by right-clicking on the Titleset # node and in the Action
menu.
Settings:
Bring up the Settings menu for project-wide customizations.
Note: Disables when there's a conversion.
Preview on / off:
Toggle the Video preview window on the right side of Main window. This allows you to quickly screen the
source video and to preview what the menu looks like, if a menu template is chosen.
Recommend to close the Video preview window when the conversion starts so as to speed up the whole
conversion process.
Uncheck both selection options to have only Tree View window displayed.
PreviousTopNext
Create project
Loading video file
1) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
Check if your project length meet this rules of thumb values(for a average movie, DVD-5, Full D1) for Encoding
quality:
High for up to 100 minutes project length.
Medium for up to 200 minutes project length.
Low for longer as 200 minutes project length.
If you think you have set everything properly at Settings, just continue with step 2) on this page to generate a
DVD with ConvertXtoDVD's default settings.
OR
If you prefer, you can click on this link for a detailed step by step procedure for all possible editable settings, to
generate a customized DVD. (start at step 2) at the detailed page).
Convert and burn project
2) Insert a blank DVD+/-R/RW in DVD writer if you want to burn the project directly after conversion.
Hint: If you prefer not to start burning automatically after conversion, because you like to check
converted file with a software player like VLC (freeware), PowerDVD (shareware) or others, uncheck Burn
result to DVD or don't insert a disc.
If the conversion comes out as you wanted, with default settings respected and menu displays as
anticipated, then you can always later Burn an already converted project.
This avoids any disappointment you may have if you are not sure, for example, how the menus will turn
out, how the subtitles are displayed, or if the audio and video will be out of sync or not.
If you need a burned disc for testing purposes, always use a DVD RW disc.
3) Click Convert to start conversion followed by burning.
4) Wait for
and click OK to finish.
This will take 10 to ?? minutes, depending on the performance of your PC, for a project of average length and
quality.
Create project
Loading video files
1) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
Repeat this step to add more video files.
Hint: We advice if you have approx. 10 or more files added into a project, Save the created project.
If the result is not as desired, the project can quickly be reloaded for editing.
If the titlesets are not in the correct sequence, use the tool move selected titleset up / down.
Check if your project length meet this rules of thumb values(for a average movie, DVD-5, Full D1) for Encoding
quality:
High for up to 100 minutes project length.
Medium for up to 200 minutes project length.
Low for longer as 200 minutes project length.
If you think you have set everything properly at Settings, just continue with step 2) on this page to generate a
DVD with ConvertXtoDVD's default settings.
OR
If you prefer, you can click on this link for a detailed step by step procedure for all possible editable settings, to
generate a customized DVD. (start at step 2) at the detailed page).
Convert and burn project
2) Insert a blank DVD+/-R in DVD writer if you want to burn the project directly after conversion.
Hint: If you prefer not to start burning automatically after conversion, because you like to check
converted file with a software player like VLC (freeware), PowerDVD (shareware) or others, uncheck Burn
result to DVD or don't insert a disc.
If the conversion comes out as you wanted, with default settings respected and menu displays as
anticipated, then you can always later Burn an already converted project.
This avoids any disappointment you may have if you are not sure, for example, how the menus will turn
out, how the subtitles are displayed, or if the audio and video will be out of sync or not.
If you need a burned disc for testing purposes, always use a DVD RW disc.
3) Click Convert to start conversion followed by burning.
4) Wait for
and click OK to finish.
This will take 10 to ?? minutes, depending on the performance of your PC, for a project of average length and
quality.
Create project
Loading video files
1) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
2) Merge more files to this titleset.
Add the file(s) what need to be merged / joined together with the at step 1) added file.
Hint: we advice if you have approx. 10 or more files added into a project, Save the created project.
If the result is not as desired, the project can quickly be reloaded for editing.
Check if your project length meet this rules of thumb values(for a average movie, DVD-5, Full D1) for Encoding
quality:
High for up to 100 minutes project length.
Medium for up to 200 minutes project length.
Low for longer as 200 minutes project length.
If you think you have set everything properly at Settings, just continue with step 3) on this page to generate a
DVD with ConvertXtoDVD's default settings.
OR
If you prefer, you can click on this link for a detailed step by step procedure for all possible editable settings, to
generate a customized DVD. (start at step 3) at the detailed page).
Convert and burn project
3) Insert a blank DVD+/-R in DVD writer if you want to burn the project direct after conversion.
Hint: If you prefer not to start burning automatically after conversion, because you like to check
converted file with a software player like VLC (freeware), PowerDVD (shareware) or others, uncheck Burn
result to DVD or don't insert a disc.
If the conversion comes out as you wanted, with default settings respected and menu displays as
anticipated, then you can always later Burn an already converted project.
This avoids any disappointment you may have if you are not sure, for example, how the menus will turn
out, how the subtitles are displayed, or if the audio and video will be out of sync or not.
If you need a burned disc for testing purposes, always use a DVD RW disc.
4) Click Convert to start conversion followed by burning.
5) Wait for
and click OK to finish.
This will take 10 to ?? minutes, depending on the performance of your PC, for a project of average length and
quality.
Create project
Loading video files (1 file to 1 titleset)
1) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
Repeat this step 1) for each of the to be added video files that should appear as a single title..
and
Loading video files (multi files to 1 titleset = merging/joining)
2) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
3) Merge more files to this titleset.
Add the file(s) what need to be merged / joined together with the at step 2) added file.
Repeat step 2) and 3) for each of the to be Add + Merge(d) video file(s) that should appear as a single title.
Hint: We advice if you have approx. 10 or more files added into a project, Save the created project.
If the result is not as desired, the project can quickly be reloaded for editing.
If the titlesets are not in the correct sequence, use the tool move selected titleset up / down.
Check if your project length meet this rules of thumb values(for a average movie, DVD-5, Full D1) for Encoding
quality:
High for up to 100 minutes project length.
Medium for up to 200 minutes project length.
Low for longer as 200 minutes project length.
If you think you have set everything properly at Settings, just continue with step 4) on this page to generate a
DVD with ConvertXtoDVD's default settings.
OR
If you prefer, you can click on this link for a detailed step by step procedure for all possible editable settings, to
generate a customized DVD. (start at step 4) at the detailed page).
Convert and burn project
4) Insert a blank DVD+/-R in DVD writer if you want to burn the project direct after conversion.
Hint: If you prefer not to start burning automatically after conversion, because you like to check
converted file with a software player like VLC (freeware), PowerDVD (shareware) or others, uncheck Burn
result to DVD or don't insert a disc.
If the conversion comes out as you wanted, with default settings respected and menu displays as
anticipated, then you can always later Burn an already converted project.
This avoids any disappointment you may have if you are not sure, for example, how the menus will turn
out, how the subtitles are displayed, or if the audio and video will be out of sync or not.
If you need a burned disc for testing purposes, always use a DVD RW disc.
5) Click Convert to start conversion followed by burning.
6) Wait for
Combined (basic)
A minimal setting step-by-step procedure, to generate a "default settings" DVD.
PreviousTopNext
and click OK to finish.
This will take 10 to ?? minutes, depending on the performance of your PC, for a project of average length and
quality.
Create project
Loading video files (1 file to 1 titleset)
1) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
Repeat this step 1) for each of the to be added video files that should appear as a single title..
and
Loading video files (multi files to 1 titleset = merging/joining)
2) Click on Add video file. Select the desired file, at the pop-up window, and click open or simply double-click on
the video file.
3) Merge more files to this titleset.
Add the file(s) what need to be merged / joined together with the at step 2) added file.
Repeat step 2) and 3) for each of the to be Add + Merge(d) video file(s) that should appear as a single title.
4) Check if your project length meet this rules of thumb values(for a average movie, DVD-5, Full D1) for Encoding
quality:
High for up to 100 minutes project length.
Medium for up to 200 minutes project length.
Low for longer as 200 minutes project length.
Modification of this setting (and the other, not at Tree View "listed", editable (global) Settings) later while
customizing project, will cause that if next described customizing points were already be done, to be
RESET TO DEFAULT and (your customized settings/data) get lost (waste of time).
Hint: We advice if you have approx. 10 or more files added into a project, Save the created project.
If the result is not as desired, the project can quickly be reloaded for editing.
If the titlesets are not in the correct sequence, use the tool move selected titleset up / down.
Customize project
DVD options settings
Note: Red numbers refer to "image of Tree View" and section in the manual
5) Open the DVD options by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
6) Check if you are satisfied with the chosen Template (2]).
7) Check if you are satisfied with the DVD play options (3] - 8]).
DVD Title Menu settings
8) Open Title Menu parameters by clicking on the + sign.
To see in Video Preview window how the Title menu will show up on the resulting DVD, click on Title text Title
menu.
Edit it here if you want to change the displayed
Title text Title menu (9]),
background video/picture (10]) (only static images are previewed displayed, video can only be seen when
conversion has taken place) and
background audio(11])
for the Title menu.
Combined (detailed)
A all possible settings step-by-step procedure, to generate a customized DVD.
PreviousTopNext
for the Title menu.
9) Check if you are satisfied with the Disc name settings (12]).
10) Close the DVD options by clicking on - sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
Titleset Menu settings (repeated steps)
11a) Start with open Titleset #1 by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
If you do not want the text name of your video file, you can Edit titleset name (14]), so that the name
appears differently in the menu at title menu.
Resume from here when you reached step 26) for Titleset #1.
11b) Start with open Titleset #2/next number by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree
View window.
If you do not want the text name of your video file, you can Edit titleset name (14]), so that the name
appears differently in the menu at title menu.
12) Open In Title menu by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
You can edit here the button text (15]) and thumbnail (16]) for the selected titleset.
13) Open Titleset Menu parameters by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
The text at Tree View for the points 20] - 24], 51], 52] are normally unchanged when DVD menu
labels settings were properly done.
14) Click on Title text for Root menu (18]), to see in Video Preview window how the Root menu will show up on the
resulting DVD.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu title text.
Less important Tree View points (indented).
15) Click on Title text for Chapter menu (17]), to see in Video Preview window how the Chapter menu will
show up on the resulting DVD.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu title text.
Note: Only first page is shown of the chapter menu. The others, when more chapters are there as will
fit on first page, have the same layout.
16) Click on Title text for Audio/Subtitle menu (19]), to see in Video Preview window how the Audio /
Subtitle menu will show up on the resulting DVD.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu title text.
Note: Only first page is shown of the audio / subtitle menu. The others, when more audio / subtitle
streams are there as will fit on first page, have the same layout.
17) Click on Background video/image menu (25] - 27]), to see in Video Preview window how the belonging menu
show up on the resulting/playing DVD.
Only static images are previewed displayed, video can only be seen when conversion has taken place.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed background.
18) Click on Background audio menu (28] - 30]) and select the audio stream what will be played when belonging
menu show up on the resulting/playing DVD.
Result can only be heared when conversion has taken place.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the played audio.
19) Open Audio (31], 32]) node by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu button text, set as default option, set
language identifier, output format, audio level and add more audio files.
20) Open Subtitle (33], 34]) node by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu text, set as default option, set language identifier
and add more subtitle files.
21) Open Chapters (35] - 37]) node by clicking on + sign just before the displayed text at Tree View window.
Edit at Tree View if you want to change the displayed menu text, time and add or remove chapters.
22) Video result can be edited/changed at Video (result) (38] - 45]).
This is more for the advanced user and there is no need to go in here when you have properly set up
your (default) Settings.
23) When you have multiple video / audio streams, you can tick/un-tick each included stream at Source file info
otherwise skip.
How to check see File Video / Audio (46] - 48])
24) When you have multiple subtitle streams, you can tick/un-tick each included stream at Source file info
otherwise skip.
You can edit here each srt stream using the SRT Subtitle text style editor.
How to check see File Subtitle (49] - 51]).
25) Save the created project.
Save your project in case you accidentally closed the program, causing loss of actual project settings, or if
the result was not as how you wanted it, the project settings can quickly loaded again for continuing / editing.
26) Repeat step 11b) to 25) until you have done all Titlesets and proceed then with step 27).
Convert (and burn) project
27) Insert a blank DVD+/-R in DVD writer if you want to burn the project direct after conversion.
Hint: If you prefer not to start burning automatically after conversion, because you like to check
converted file with a software player like VLC (freeware), PowerDVD (shareware) or others, uncheck Burn
result to DVD or don't insert a disc.
If the conversion comes out as you wanted, with default settings respected and menu displays as
anticipated, then you can always later Burn an already converted project.
This avoids any disappointment you may have if you are not sure, for example, how the menus will turn
out, how the subtitles are displayed, or if the audio and video will be out of sync or not.
If you need a burned disc for testing purposes, always use a DVD RW disc.
28) Click Convert to start conversion (followed by burning).
29) Wait for
and click OK to finish.
This will take 10 to ?? minutes, depending on the performance of your PC, for a project of average length and
quality.
1) To burn multiple copies of a converted DVD project, make sure you have unchecked the option "Delete folder
after successful burn". Otherwise, the DVD folder will be deleted after burning is complete.
Select your preferred burner and burning speed. It is recommended to select half the speed of the rated media,
provided the burner's firmware can support that speed, and always use Verbatim and Taiyo Yuden media to ensure
burn quality and reliablity.
2) To burn an already converted project, select at menu bar Action -> Burn an already converted project.
3) Go to the Working folder and select the created DVD folder, containing AUDIO_TS and VIDEO_TS folders.
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4) Click OK and the following Burn DVD dialog appears.
If you have not inserted the writable media into the selected burner yet, the dialog will ask you to do so.
Note that the two checkbox options, "Delete DVD folder after successful burn" and "Don't eject disc at
completion" are copied from the Settings -> Burning tab. The selected DVD folder is automatically copied into the
Volume Name entry for your convenience.
5) Once the media has been inserted, you are given a few seconds to make last minute changes before the burn
process automatically starts, or you can just hit the Burn button to burn immediately.
And you're done!
Here you enter the basic (startup) settings, which are loaded each time you start the application
(ConvertXtoDVD).
This menu has 11 Tabs for the moment.
Each tab is explained separately.
General
Language
Chapters
DVD menus
DVD specification
Burning
Subtitles
Audio
Encoding
Video processing
Sound events
In the working folder, you will find a created folder with the same name as from the first added file,
containing 2 sub-folders, named VIDEO_TS and AUDIO_TS.
VIDEO_TS contains all "data" and AUDIO_TS is always empty and is required by some old DVD players
to play.
Note: If you have 2 (or more) hard discs in/at your PC, use one for the Source file(s) and the other to
store the converted DVD files. This will optimize the read / write of the files.
Remember last opened folder
If checked, the dialog for adding files will start from last opened folder, else from defined working folder.
Flip preview
If the preview appears upside down in the interface check this box, close ConvertXtoDVD and open it
again. The preview will now be right side up.
General
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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Check internet for updates regularly
Will check for version update periodically as long as ConvertXtoDVD is running.
Do not prompt for updates
If checked, ConvertXtoDVD will not ask for permission before checking for an update.
Theme
Change appearance of the user interface by clicking on the various themes in the list.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs!
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs in Settings sub-window.
Allows you to select the language you want ConvertXtoDVD to appear in.
For all languages you must first select the language, and then restart the application for all the changes to take
effect.
Once you have done this, you don't have to do this again.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs!
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
Language
Here you select your language to be shown in ConvertXtoDVD windows, which is loaded at the
start of the program.
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A chapter is an invisible mark in the video that helps you navigate through the film as you are watching it. Instead
of fast-forwarding to a specific point you can jump at intervals, these intervals are chapter points that you can
determine here.
Note: A maximum of 99 chapters points can be created.
Create Chapter every
Allow you to automatically insert a chapter every X minutes or seconds. M = minutes, S = seconds
If unchecked, no chapters will be added automatically. Always a chapter point will be created at start of
file. You can not delete this first one !!
In the main interface (Tree View) you can later manually add more chapters at specific places.
For titleset longer than
Inserts a chapter at the value indicated above only if the video is longer than the specified duration
(default set value is 15 minutes). Always a chapter point will be created at start of file. You can not delete
this first one !! For example this means that no additional chapters will be added if you would add a video
that is only 10 minutes long, e.g. suitable for music video clips.
Both settings unchecked
A] If you uncheck both settings and use the Add function to make 1 or more Titleset(s), you will end
up with a DVD with one or more Title(s) and only a chapter point at start of each Title
B] If you uncheck both settings and use the Merge function to make 1(one) Titleset, you will end up
with a DVD with a single Title and a chapter point at start of each merged file, were you can jump to,
when playing Title, with using next (chapter) button on your remote.
You may also set up chapters manually in your project. See More chapter actions topic.
For how the DVD should act when played in a stand-alone player, see DVD play options 3] - 8].
Automatic chapter button text naming
Chapters
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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Here you find how the text will appear for the chapter buttons.
With these settings <c> it will show in button:
Chapter # 1
The text "Chapter" is modified in this section or at the Tab DVD menus section DVD menu labels.
The used variable can be changed as in the list shown.
Change the variable between brackets < > .
The brackets< and > are not shown in the button.
some examples:
-Chapter # <c> --> Chapter # 1
-Chapter # <c> of <cc> --> Chapter # 1 of 4 (value of 4 depends on the amount of created chapters)
-Whatever <c> --> Whatever 1
You can combine variables in a text line.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs!
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
On this tab you can specify DVD menu start-up settings for new projects. You will be able to customize the DVD
menu options within each project individually as well (see chapter Tree View).
I (hansK) leave them all empty (at Settings menu) and set the required option(s) for each project at Tree View.
Default template 2]
Select here the default template to be used at start-up / for new projects.
DVD menus
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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If a text label is too large in the menu, then
Select how text should be dealt with that is too long to fit into the dedicated area. Possible choices are:
DVD menu labels (button text)
Specify default texts for certain Titles/buttons that may appear in the menu. Which buttons will actually
appear depends on the template used for a project. See Template options.
Double-click on the second column to edit the default text to your preference.
Click on <Reset to defaults> if the default text is not shown in your language. This button will load the
Default text of your language translation file
DVD Options (check boxes)
Auto-start playback 3]
When DVD is inserted, Title menu is skipped and the first title on the DVD is played
immediately. If no other options have been set, when finished playing, it returns to the Title menu.
Loop playback 4]
When the last title of the Title menu listing finishes playing, the first title in the listing will be
selected and will play again.
In case of more then one title on the DVD and want to have a continues play, you need also to
set 5]
Play titles one after the other 5]
Play the videos titles one after the other (sequentially) without going back to the Title menu. The
next title in the Title menu listing is automatically selected and started, when playing of actual
selected title has finished.
Skip root menu initially 6]
When a title is selected from the Title (main) menu, the root menu will be skipped and the title
played directly after pressing play / OK on remote.
Return to title menu after title playback 7]
When a title finishes playing, you are returned to the Title (main) menu instead of the root menu.
This option is ignored if there is no Title menu generated (8]).
Dont create title menu for single video 8]
If there is only one titleset, the title menu will not be generated. This means that the DVD is
played immediately after inserted in DVD player.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
On this tab you can specify DVD format defaults that will be used for new projects. You will be able to customize video format options
within each project individually as well (see chapter Tree view).
Format (your local Video Standard) 40]
Select your DVD output format here. Not all DVD players can read /play both formats (PAL / NTSC). If you are unsure,
select the region you live in.
Select Automatic to let ConvertXtoDVD use the video standard of the source file.
There is a possibility that you can not play the DVD because of wrong Format.
This happens mostly for users in a NTSC region and converting a PAL source file.
By default convertxtodvd always outputs progressive playback file.
If pulldown is used for the conversion however the playback will not be progressive.
DVD Resolution (rescale source file to ..... pixels) 39]
This is the converted picture / movie file resolution into it gets "transformed", as pre-selected at Format.
DVD specification
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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Default is Full D1 resolution; you may however change this to a lower resolution to fit more videos onto one disc (will reduce
image quality).
For example: Left half is Full D1 resolution , right half is SIF resolution.
Select Automatic to let ConvertXtoDVD decide the resolution based on the resolution of the source file.
Aspect ratio (make result as ....."size") 41]
Allows you to select whether you want the converted video file Aspect ratio to be set automatically or either be full screen
(Aspect ratio 4:3) or widescreen format(Aspect ratio 16:9).
Normally, this should be left to Automatic.
If Automatic has been selected, the switching point between 4:3 and 16:9 is around a source file aspect ratio of 1.55
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did a first/clean install
of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
Burn result to DVD / as ISO file in working folder
If checked, program will burn DVD folder files to DVD after conversion has finished (when a blank DVD
has been placed in burner and this type can hold the amount of created "data").
If not checked, the files will be saved in the working folder on your computer.
Also you can select between an ISO image or your default burner.
You must set ISO image before you start add video file(s) in a new project.
Note: The ISO image is not saved as default setting. After you did a conversion to ISO, it will automatic
return to your default burner.(VSO decision)
Set also your burning speed at this section.
Recommended speed for Single Layer (DVD-5) is 4x, but do not go faster than half of the rated speed of
disc.
For Dual Layer (DVD-9) we recommend 2x.
Default DVD Label
Default text to be used for menu title and name of the disc. Leave empty to use the name of the first video
file.
Add original files to DVD (if possible)
If there is enough free space left on the DVD after conversion, the original container files (avi, mkv) will be
added and burned on the disc.
A 3rd sub-folder named ORIGINAL is added to the created main folder what already contains AUDIO_TS
and VIDEO_TS.
Burning
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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External file(s) like .srt and additional audio are not automatically included.
Add/copy them manual into the ORIGINAL sub-folder.
Only useful if someone else needs to edit the result again.
IMO:
- Not useful for backup. When this created disk is destroyed / lost, the backup has also gone.
- It takes space away for the to be converted movie what will result in a worse quality.
Delete folder after successful burn
Once the burn is successful, the working DVD folder will be deleted to save hard drive space. Source file
(s) is/are not deleted.
Note: If you want to burn multiple DVDs from this project, uncheck this option before you begin the
conversion.
Send burn statistics to VSO online database
Will send burn statistics to VSO, requires an internet connection
(for more information see installation topic)
Do not eject disc nor open explorer at the end of conversion
The disc will not be ejected NOR the DVD folder or ISO file will not be opened in your explorer when the
conversion is completed.
Always erase rewritable disc without warning
Always erase an inserted rewritable disc without confirmation warning.
SAO options on DVD-R
Specifies the burn method for DVD-R media used by ConvertXtoDVD. This should be left to Automatic,
unless you have problems burning to DVD-R media. Possible choices are:
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
In this tab you can specify subtitle default settings that will be used at start-up / for new projects. You will be able to customize subtitle options within each
project individually as well (at Tree View).
Default Subtitle language (identifier)
This is the setting for the default language identifier which is assumed for all added subtitle files. For example, if a subtitle file is added it will be
tagged with what ever language you select here, meaning you DVD player will display this language abbreviation (identifier) when you select
subtitles to play.
Text subtitles rendering settings
This button opens up the Subtitle Style Editor, proposing advanced subtitle editing possibilities.
Subtitles
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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This screen is explained at Text style Editors chapter, topic Subtitle text editor.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the windowyou have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree Viewwindow.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behavior of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
On this tab you can specify audio defaults that will be used at start-up / for new projects. You will be able to
customize some audio options within each project individually as well (Tree view).
Default audio language (identifier)
This is the setting for the default language identifier which is assumed for all added audio files. For
example, if a audio file is added it will be tagged with what ever language you select here, meaning you
DVD player will display this language abbreviation (identifier) when you select audio to play.
Convert Audio to format:
- Automatic: The automatic setting keeps the same number of channels, and if the source is a stream
Audio
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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compatible with DVD, then it is simply copied without any modification (unless there is a sound treatment
required, such as audio normalization, Convert DTS to AC-3, ...)
Automatic will always output a supported DVD formats (PCM, MPEG, AC-3 and DTS), with the same
number of channels if it is possible
- AC-3, 5.1: Converts audio source stream to AC-3, 5.1 channels even if source contains less or more
than 6 channels.
When selected, it'll be matrixed and down/up mixed to the 6 channels.
- AC-3, 2.0: Converts audio source stream to AC-3, 2 channels.
When selected, it'll be matrixed and down/up mixed to the 2 channels.
- MPEG: Converts audio source stream to MPEG format, with an output of 1 or 2 channels.
If necessary it will be down mixed.
Note: To keep DTS(whatever) audio stream, select:
Convert audio to format:Automatic
Convert DTS to AC-3:Unchecked
Audio level:Keep source level(0)
Convert DTS to AC-3
In Automatic mode, check this box to convert a DTS (5.1) audio stream to AC-3 which more players can
play/support.
Otherwise if the source is DTS, you might not be able to hear any sound.
Note: To keep DTS audio stream, select:
Convert audio to format:Automatic
Convert DTS to AC-3:Unchecked
Audio level:Keep source level(0)
Audio level - normalization
Here you select the audio volume level.
4 pre-defined levels and 1 fully customized value. It is recommended to leave this setting as is. If a
converted file has low sound then you might want to convert it again selecting a higher level setting.
1 - Selecting [Keep source level(0)] will do a raw copy of the source audio.
2 - Selecting [Soft (Level at 45%)] will give a audio output level of 45% on a scale of 0 - 100.
3 - Selecting [Soft (Level at 67%)] will give a audio output level of 67% on a scale of 0 - 100.
4 - Selecting [Soft (Level at 89%)] will give a audio output level of 89% on a scale of 0 - 100.
- Selecting [Custom value (+0..100%)] will give a audio output level of the entered value on a scale of 0 -
100.
When selecting this, a box will open where you can enter a value between +0 - 100.
The scale represents this perception:
100% means that the sound cannot be louder.(Max.)
1% means the sound is almost inperceptible.(Min.)
20% is the loudness of elevator music
50% is the loudness of a person's speaking
70% is the loudness of a crowd
90% is the loudness of pop or dance music FM radio and
0% is a reserved value to say that we don't apply any sound level modification.(raw copy)
Further technical explanation:
The new sound boosting scheme is in fact a function that may both amplify or attenuate the sound. It's
more complex than a simple sound normalization or amplification, but the result is way much better. The
sound level is constantly adjusted to reflect the human perception of how loud or soft is a sound.
So it gives an output sound pressure (target audio level) ranging from -30 to -3 dB. If the input sound is
louder than the the target sound it is attenuated; if it's softer it is amplified.
Note: To keep DTS(whatever) audio stream, select:
Convert audio to format:Automatic
Convert DTS to AC-3:Unchecked
Audio level:Keep source level(0)
Log engine messages
If checked, allows very technical messages about the engine behavior to appear in log file (for diagnostic
purposes). Regular log files will always be generated whether this option is checked or not.
Encoding options
Automatic setting:
Use Automatic if you have no clue what the other options mean.
The program will decide for you what setting to use to achieve the best possible video quality. But
remember: the longer the project length the lower the quality due to overall lower average bitrate, even
if the green light is still shown in the conversion advisor main window.
Possible indications in the Encoding option advisor main window:
Encoding
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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Manual settings:
You can manually select one of the 3 encoding profiles should you want more control. This may not
be the optimal setting if you forget to look at the total project length in the status bar of the main
window.
The project length is the Total time shown in the CXD status bar as source files are being added to
the project.
Here's the tooltip:
SP (Short Projects)
Use SP if your project has a total length up to 110 minutes.
MP (Medium Projects)
Use SP if your project has a total length up to 148 minutes.
LP (Long Projects)
Use LP if your project has a total length of 148 minutes or more.
The Encoding option advisor will still advise you what setting to choose when the light turns yellow or
red as it evaluates the total project length.
Target size
You can choose your target size DVD-5 (Single Layer, 4.7 GB), DVD-9 (Double Layer, 8.5 GB), or a
custom value (in MB). The program will make sure during conversion that the output file size is small
enough to fit on the type of target size you selected. On average, about 4 hours of normal compressed
video file can be converted and burned on to a DVD-5 without losing significant amount of quality thus
keeping Encoding quality at either medium or high.
It depends on the source file if the DVD will be fully filled. See message in log file : Video bitrate has
been set to maximum possible value for DVD specifications. Target size may not be reached.
Note: If you have unchecked the option [ ] Burn result to DVD, and used the target size DVD-9, you can check
by looking in the log file if your conversion will even fit on a DVD-5 (cheaper) disc.
The storage industry standard displays the capacity in decimal. Even though in binary you have more bytes, the
decimal representation of a gigabyte shows greater capacity. In order to accurately understand the true capacity
of the medium, you have to know which base unit of measure (binary or decimal) is being used to represent
capacity.
For DVD, the computer uses the Binary Value to tell the capacity of the disc.
Two Different Measurements Systems
As that we can only enter a decimal value, you have to multiply this entered value with the Binary Value
Max. capacity: 4380 * 1,073,741,824 = 4702 MB = 4.7 GB
VSO advise: 4300 * 1,073,741,824 = 4617 MB
With this value , the program can surely burn a converted project, even if it has gone a little bit over target size
(100%+) in case of "wrong" assumption.
Conversion priority
If you are doing other tasks at the same time on your computer you can set the priority level in which
your computer will treat the conversion in order to not slow down your other tasks or to prioritize the
conversion instead. Generally, it is best to run ConvertXtoDVD without any background tasks going on.
Two-pass encoding
ConvertXtoDVD encodes the video with a variable bitrate, which is best for quality, using a customized
Constant Quality encoding method.
This means that if a scene is "complex" (with fast movement), the encoder will reserve more space for
this part of the video than for simple scenes (static) with less information (elements).
The longer the video you want to put on a DVD, the less must be the average video bitrate, so it is more
important to save some space during "slow" or static scenes to provide more space for "fast" action
scenes.
Single pass encoding (unticked/unchecked)
The encoder doesn't know the complexity of the scenes because they were not yet played. So, averaging
the bitrate must be done within a small portion of the video (a few seconds). Thus, it may occur that if a
Name Abbreviation
Binary
power
Binary decimal
equivalent
Decimal
power
Decimal equivalent
kilobyte KB
2
10
1024
10
3
1,000
megabyte MB
2
20
1,048,576
10
6
1,000,000
gigabyte GB
2
30
1,073,741,824
10
9
1,000,000,000
terabyte TB
2
40
1,099,511,627,776
10
12
1,000,000,000,000
complex scene arrives, but to maintain the average bitrate over the slice of video considered, there is not
enough bitrate available to handle the scene, thus giving artifacts.
Two-pass encoding (ticked/checked)
In the two pass mode, the first pass has the job of reading, analyzing and taking notes of the video file in
order to get an overview of the whole video file including specific information about scenes.
The second pass has the job of doing the actual encoding. When the second pass starts to encode, it
has for each frame the value of the complexity (including other information such as motion vectors, ...)
determined during the first pass. So, the encoder is capable of distributing the bitrate exactly where it is
required, taking the whole movie as reference.
Audio encoding is done in second pass.
Additional encoding information
So, whether you select single or double pass the average final bitrate for video will be the same, however
inside the movie the distribution of that bitrate may be different - it is not completely different as single
pass. Often it is ok for most of the time to allocate the proper amount of bitrate when it is really needed;
however, slight differences may occur especially when the encoded movie is long.
The quality difference will be visible mostly when there is fast action scenes, double pass will tend to
produce less square artifacts than single pass.
In summary, single pass provides a default fixed bitrate reserve which evolves as the encoding occur. In
two-pass the bitrate reserve is maximal in each frame as it is allocated taking the whole movie into
account; but when there is not enough bitrate in reserve, then CQ encoding has to be dropped, so
"normal" VBR is used.
Due to the intrinsic behavior of the FFMPEG encoder, when the average video bitrate is above 5 Mbps
(quantization factor is 1 for Short project), the benefit of the two-pass tends to be smaller. However, if the
bitrate is below that, then two-pass will result in more frames encoded with the smaller possible Q. Also
when the DVD is not filled to the specified target size, the quality difference between single pass and two-
pass is minimal, so two-pass probably is not necessary.
Note that the average video bitrate for Short project will always be higher than Medium and Long project,
largely in part the project length is short.
Additional information about 2 pass
http://www.afterdawn.com/glossary/terms/multipass.cfm
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you
did a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
On this tab you can specify video processing defaults that will be used for new projects. You will be able to
customize video options within each project individually as well.
De-interlacing 43]
In the case that your original file is interlaced we suggest you check the Deinterlace option in
ConvertXtoDVD to have a better result. Files coming from TV or DV camcoders may need this process.
Video resize method 42]
Select how videos will be resized to fill / fit the screen by default.
Video processing
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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If you don't know what will happen, see link for source file AR 4:3 or source file AR 16:9 what the program
will create.
Resize filter
List of all available filters for V4 program. These filters are written from scratch and possibly are similar to
the existing original filters from the respective creators.
Search the internet for their intended working and purpose of the filter.
Testing at VSO shows that Lanczos gives the best result for majority of conversions.
Some filters have longer processing time and maybe better quality than others due to the complexity of
the algorithm. You will need to decide which filter works best for your source.
Multicore processor support
You can set how many cores of your processor are used while running ConvertXtoDVD, while the
remaining(s) is/are used for other programs.
Recent microprocessors embed several cores (physical and logical). Each core can work (in theory) in
parallel, independently.
Multicore support is a technique allowing to split a task involving intensive CPU computation in several
parts, and send each part of the work in each core.
For instance on a quad core and selected 4 cores, the operation to resize the frame, the picture (frame) is
chopped into 4 parts, and each part is resized in its own core. The speed gain is always LESS than the
number of cores selected, mostly because all cores are not physical cores (thus they cannot really work
independently), and also all the cores must be synchronized at the end of their work, which in fact
consumes time.
So, speed gain due to multicore support is bigger when used with high definition source content and high
quality resize filters, and may even degrade performances when used with low definition source content.
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you
did a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour of the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
On this tab you can specify audio files to be played once a specific event has occurred.
Play Sound Events
Uncheck this option if you do not want to be notified using sound events.
Process Completed
Is played whenever an operation has been finished (i.e. conversion or burning process is done).
Question
Is played when the application needs you to make a selection in order to continue.
Writable DVD Required
Is played when you need to insert a media to burn.
Problem Detected
Is played when an error or other problem has occurred.
Update Available
Is played when a newer version is found online.
Customize the Sound events
You can customize the played events by adding more audio files to the folder.
The folder to add to is at: C:\ program files \ VSO \ Common \ Sounds. (XP)
Note: Important for all Settings Tabs !
Sound events
Here you enter the basic settings, which are loaded at the start of the program.
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Buttons
At the bottom of the window you have 3 buttons.
-Reset to VSO defaults: This will set all settings for ALL TABS to the original (VSO) settings, looks like you did
a first/clean install of the program.
There is no way to restore the values/settings to your preferences other then entering them manually again.
-OK: Will apply all settings, modified or not, to the project (if started) at Tree View window.
Read the pop-up/Tooltip boxes thoroughly before deciding!
-Cancel: will cancel/not apply any modifications.
The behaviour the 3 buttons is the same for all 11 tabs at Settings sub-window.
List of sections in the Tree View.
Each section has several sub-menus and are explained separately.
DVD options
Titleset #
Note: Changing settings at Tree View window
If you want them always have them as default at starting program, set it at Menu bar, Settings and in the
appropriate tab.
If you set/change at Tree View, they are only changed for the duration of this actual project.
As soon as you close the program, and you start it again, it will load the settings
Each red numbered item in the images below is explained in this manual (xx]). Look at the number that interests
you and navigate to that section. Check the title of the section in grey bar at top of pages to verify the number
that interests you is displayed there.
Also move mouse over the items, a tooltip box can appear with some more explicit information for quick
reference.
Note: Read carefully the text in Tree View (screen) for the item you are looking for. Screen display and picture
here might not fully correspond in the logical following.
Tree View
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List of topics in the DVD options section.
Each topic is explained separately.
DVD options
Template now used
DVD play options
Title text Title menu
Title menu Background Video / Image
Title menu Background Audio
Disc name
All Menu Page text style editor
DVD options (1-13) PreviousTopNext
1]
Here is shown the name of the Disc presented when a DVD is placed in a PC drive.
Also the selected DVD/target size for this project is displayed.
You can edit the disk name by clicking on it.
The Disc name (12]) will change accordingly.
3 -8 - DVD play options - Here you can select how the DVD should behave.
Changes done at Tree View apply to this whole project.
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List of topics in the Title Menu parameters section.
Each topic is explained separately.
Title text in Title menu
Title menu Background Video / image
Title menu background Audio
10]
Background video / image for Title menu
Click (at Tree View) to edit the background video / image to be used for the title menu (may not be available for all templates):
1) Possible choices:
Use a custom file allows selecting a video/image file to be used as background. If you use a image, it should have a size of 720*540
pixels / aspect ratio 4:3, to have no distorted picture.(see menu result at bottom of this page).
Remove no background video/image will be used
Do not change will use the default setting as defined in the menu template
2) If a video has been selected as background, specify the starting time code to use from the video. Up to 30 seconds(depending on chosen
template) of the video will play in loop here as the background from the starting time you indicated.
3) Click here to apply your changes once you are done. You should see then these changes in the preview window.
4) Displays the path/name of the selected video/image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
5) Specify the opacity for the background video/image (0 = transparent, 100 = opaque)
10 - Title menu background video / image
Changes done at Tree View apply to this whole project.
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6) Click this icon/button to browse for an video/image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
Result
Resulting Background video / image for Title menu (always 4:3 AR)
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 0.75 (portrait)
Source Menu background picture
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.0
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.33 (landscape)
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.78
Source Menu background picture
11]
Background audio for Title menu
Click (at Tree View) to edit the background audio to be used for the title menu (may not be available for all templates):
1) Possible choices:
Use a custom file allows selecting an audio file to be used as background audio
Remove no background audio will be used
Do not change will use the default setting as defined in the menu template
2) If an audio has been selected as background audio, specify the starting time code to use from the audio file. Up to 30 seconds(depending
on chosen template) of the audio will play in loop here as audio from the starting time you indicated. See Template options for playing times.
3) Click here to apply your changes once you are done
4) Displays the path/name of the selected audio file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
5) Specify the volume for the audio (0 = minimum, 100 = maximum), playing when this menu is selected
11 - Title menu background audio
Changes done at Tree View apply to this whole project.
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6) Click this icon/button to browse for an audio file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
12]
You can select this item to edit.
It is there for giving a DVD disc a name when inserted for instance in a DVD drive in your PC. If no name was
entered, you would have to guess what is in there. No name would have been shown. By default it is set to "My
DVD" (English language selected)
Edit the name and confirm.
This has only a function when a disc directly afterwards automatically is burned.
Option [X] Burn result to DVD must be checked.
The entered text will also show up at item 1] at tree View
List of topics in the Titleset # menu section.
Each topic is explained separately.
Edit Titleset name
Merge window
In Title menu
Button text
Thumbnail
Titleset menu parameters
Text
Background Video / Image
Background Audio
Audio
Audio settings
More Audio actions
Subtitle
Subtitle settings
More Subtitle actions
Chapters
More chapter actions
Chapter text
Chapter thumbnail
Video (result)
Window Video resize method
Resolution
Format
Aspect ratio
Video resize method
De-interlace
Source file info
File Video / Audio
Video file
Audio file
File Subtitle
25]
Background video/image for Chapter menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background video/image to be used for the chapter menu (may not be
available for all templates):
1) Possible choices:
Use a custom file allows selecting an video or image file to be used as background. If you use a image, it should
have a size of 720*540 pixels / aspect ratio 4:3, to have no distorted picture.(see menu result at bottom of this
page)
Remove no background will be used
Do not change will use the default setting as defined in the menu template
2) If a video has been selected as background, specify the starting time code to use from the video. Up to 30
seconds(depending on chosen template) of the video will play in loop here as the background from the starting
25, 26, 27 - Background video / image
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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time you indicated.
3) Click here to apply your changes once you are done. You should see these changes in the preview window.
4) Displays the path/name of the selected video/image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
5) Specify the opacity for the background video or image (0 = transparent, 100 = opaque)
6) Click this button to browse for an video or image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
26]
Background video/image for Root menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background video/image to be used for the Root menu (may not be
available for all templates):
See above how to edit
27]
Background video/image for Audio/Subtitle menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background video/image to be used for the Audio/Subtitle menu (may
not be available for all templates):
not be available for all templates):
See above how to edit
Resulting Background video / image for the above menus (always 4:3 AR)
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 0.75 (portrait)
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.0
Source Menu background picture
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.33 (landscape)
Source Menu background picture
Image Source Aspect Ratio: 1.78
Source Menu background picture
28]
Background audio for Chapter menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background audio to be used for the Chapter menu (may not be
available for all templates):
1) Possible choices:
Use a custom file allows selecting an audio file to be used as background music
Remove no background will be used
Do not change will use the default setting as defined in the menu template
2) If a audio has been selected as background, specify the starting time code to use from the audio. Up to 30
seconds(depending on chosen template) of the audio will play in loop here as music from the starting time you
indicated.
3) Click here to apply your changes once you are done
) Displays the path/name of the selected audio file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
28, 29, 30 - Background audio
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
PreviousTopNext
4) Displays the path/name of the selected audio file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
5) Specify the volume for the audio (0 = minimum, 100 = maximum)
6) Click this button to browse for an audio file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
29]
Background audio for Root menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background audio to be used for the Root menu (may not be available
for all templates):
See above how to edit
30]
Background audio for Audio/Subtitle settings menu
Double-click (at Tree View) to specify the background audio to be used for the Audio/Subtitle settings menu (may
not be available for all templates):
See above how to edit
List of topics in the Audio menu section.
Each topic is explained separately.
Audio settings
More Audio actions
33]
If you right-click on this selected item, you can add (max. 32 streams) additional subtitle stream(s) to this titleset
or remove the additional added ones.
A subtitle stream what comes within a container (avi, mkv), can not be deleted.
It can only disabled by unchecking stream(s) at Source file info.
Note: Be sure that the subtitle framerate matches with your loaded video file, otherwise you end up with a subtitle
what out of sync is.
If you have a PAL (25 Fps) video, have a subtitle what has the same framerate.
NTSC (29.97 Fps) video needs a subtitle file with 29.97 Fps.
If you want to load automatic a subtitle when adding a video file see topic Automatic load Subtitle
33 - More subtitle actions
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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List of topics in the Chapter menu section.
Each topic is explained separately.
More chapter actions
Chapter text
Chapter thumbnail
36]
This section lists the chapters for this titleset that have been created automatically by ConvertXtoDVD based on
the Chapters settings.
Below is a typical view.
The button text is displayed at 36 in below picture.
To change Chapter button text in the menu, expand it and double-click the text (blue highlighted).
Then it opens the editor.
36 - Chapter text
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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1) Enter the desired Chapter button text here.
2) Shows if the text will fit the assigned text area/field for the menu with the selected text style chosen at 3)
(green = ok, red = too long).
If not changed, it will follow the rules set at DVD menus
3) Text style to be used for this displayed item.
4) Click this button to enter menu text style editor to edit text styles.
5) Click here to apply your changes. You should see then these changes in the preview window.
Note: Depending on the template used, some items might not been editable and therefore greyed out.
Note: The maximum amount of chapters is limited to 99
37]
To change thumbnail display in the menu, expand chapter node and double-click
on the thumbnail line.
Thumbnail video/image at Title select button
Edit-click to specify the thumbnail video/image to be used at the title select button for the title menu (may not be
available for all templates).
Shown thumbnail is just a generic one, the real one will be generated during conversion:
37 - Chapter thumbnail
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
PreviousTopNext
1) Possible choices:
Use a custom file allows selecting an video/image file to be used as thumbnail
Remove no video/image will be used
Use template settings will use the default settings as defined in the menu template
2) If a video has been selected as thumbnail, specify the starting time code to use from the video. Up to 30
seconds of the video will play in loop here as thumbnail from the starting time you indicated.
3) Click here to apply your changes once you are done
4) Displays the selected video/image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
5) Specify the opacity for thumbnail video/image (0 = transparent, 100 = opaque)
6) Click this icon/button to browse for an video/image file (only if Use a custom file is selected)
Note: Depending on the template used, some items might not been editable and therefore greyed out.
Note: The maximum amount of chapters is limited to 99
List of topics in the Video (result) section.
Each topic is explained separately.
Window Video resize method
Resolution
Format
Aspect ratio
Video resize method
De-interlace
Here is the list of the possible resolutions you can select from.
More pixels mean that it has a better "sharpnes"s on display.
This also means a bigger file, so less "movie" length will fit on a DVD without decreasing picture quality.
Select Automatic to let ConvertXtoDVD decide the resolution based on the resolution of the source file.
Selecting Half D1 can be interesting for files originally coming from VHS cassettes.
39 - Resolution
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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40]
Format
Double-click to choose the output Format for your DVD (PAL or NTSC)
You can select out of these 2 options:
Select the principle format used in your region.
Check the manual of your DVD player for the supported format(s).
40 - Format
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
PreviousTopNext
41]
Aspect ratio
Double-click to choose the Aspect ratio for this titleset
Select one of the 2 options.
Select the desired aspect ratio (AR) for the titleset
If you don't know what will happen, see link for 4:3 source file Aspect ratio or 16:9 source file Aspect ratio for
examples of what the program will create.
Information about your source file can be found at Source file info Video file topic.
Click the button to open Video resize method sub-window.
Click to find out more information on the Video resize method sub-window
41 - Aspect Ratio
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
PreviousTopNext
42], 43]
You can select the video resize method from the drop-down box. It is recommended to leave this setting to Letterbox.
If you do need some visual aid / support, select then the TV icon.
A sub-window opens.
Set video resize method
You can resize this sub-window so, that the displayed "movie" will 100% fill the preview area (enable box Show safe
area)
If you select at Aspect ratio the size/type your TV set has, it will give you the view what will be on the DVD "burned"
and seen when playing on a stand-alone DVD player attached to this TV set.
Aspect ratio
42, 43 - Video resize method - Only accessible when a titleset exists
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
PreviousTopNext
This is how the movie will be "stored/saved/burned on the DVD.
Some visuals you will find for 4:3 at Aspect ratio 4:3 versus resize or for 16:9 at Aspect ratio 16:9 versus resize
For example:
If you have a true 4:3 source file and you select Aspect ratio 4:3, there are no black bars added and so not "burned"
within the conversion.
The same for source 16:9, selected Aspect ratio 16:9
If you have a true 4:3 source file and you select Aspect ratio 16:9, the left and right added black bars are "burned"
within the conversion.
If you have a true 2.39:1 source file and you select Aspect ratio 16:9, the top and bottom added black bars are
"burned" within the conversion.
See DVD specification tab where you can set it as start-up default setting, every time you start a new
project/ConvertXtoDVD.
Resize method
If you click between the different Resize methods (except User-defined) and look in the picture window,you will see
what is going to happen with your result (Aspect ratio).
Some visuals you will find for 4:3 at Aspect ratio 4:3 versus resize or for 16:9 at Aspect ratio 16:9 versus resize
See Video processing tab where you can set it as start-up default setting, every time you start a new
project/ConvertXtoDVD.
User-Defined resize
If you select the User-defined resize, you can set it to whatever size. In this example was pad at top and bottom
applied to the video file, a.k.a black bars.
Enter a value or use the slider (click blue down arrow to open) to modify.
The same you can do for left and right.
Also you can crop the movie by using the crop settings..
Symmetric Pad/Crop checked, will link opposite side with the same amount
Be aware you might loose the Aspect ratio of the "movie".
Safe area
If this box checked, will show at preview window, a white "frame" (shade) were it might not be safe to have "data"
displayed in.
Reason: Overscan by CRT TV.
In all cases, if the picture is within the "frame", you are on the safe side, you do not loose anything of the "movie".
Apply settings
Depending on the checked box(es), selected Aspect ratio and Resize method are applied to this Titleset (also the
merged file(s)). Only available when merged source files have the same video resolution.
or
applied to all Titlesets if more than one is added to your project.
Move through the selected Titleset
1)You can "scan " through the created titleset by using the time slider.
2) The position of the created chapter points.
3) Source file info (source file picture size - Aspect ratio)
) Source file info (source file picture size - Aspect ratio)
4) The actual time in movie (picture display moment) is shown
5) The actual file name at slider position.In case of merged files, the file name changes to the corresponding file.
44, 45]
De-interlace
Check this option if the source video is in interlaced format (often applies to TV or camcorder recordings). If you
have converted a project and find that the result appears choppy or horizontal movement is distorted like in the
image below, convert again with this option enabled.
Example of an interlaced file
48]
This section (46])lists all files that belong to this titleset. Expand individual files to display some information about them. The
following image shows a video files information:
48 - Audio Source file information
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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Offset
Most of these are just for informational purposes and cannot be changed. You can change the offset of audio (48]) or video (47])
streams though. This might be required if you converted a project and find that the audio is not in sync with the picture. In such
a case you can adjust the audio offset (48]) by selecting the audio stream here, and then click it once again. Use a positive
value if audio comes too early or a negative one if it comes too late.
The value can be entered by using blue up/down arrow (in steps of 100 ms) or by entering the value in milliseconds (resolution =
1 ms) through the numeric keyboard.
If you don't want to include this stream to the conversion, uncheck box in front of stream.
Play Audio
If you select the audio stream and right-click, you will be able to play the audio stream and listen if it is there / recognized.
49]
This section (49]) lists information that belong to this subtitle. Expand individual files to display some information about them.
The following image shows a subtitle file's information:
Most of these are just for informational purposes and cannot be changed.
50]
For .srt subtitle files, you can click on Srt Subtitle text style editor to change the appearance of this subtitle.
51]
49, 50, 51 - Subtitle Source file information
Changes done for this item at Tree View apply only to this Titleset.
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You can change the offset of .srt subtitle streams though. This might be required if you converted a project and find that the
subtitle is not in sync with the video/audio. In such a case you can adjust the subtitle offset by selecting the subtitle stream
here, and then click it once again. Use a positive value if subtitle comes too early or a negative one if it comes too late.
The value can be entered by using blue up/down arrow (in steps of 100 ms) or by entering the value in milliseconds (resolution =
1 ms) through the numeric keyboard.
If you don't want to include this stream to the conversion, uncheck box in front of stream.
These listed pages contain a picture / pictures how the lay-out of the official VSO
template menus are.
Additional you will find an overview of all possible options for each template listed.
Black Mirror
Champestre
Classic
CX2
Default
Film
Image Wall
Minimal
No Menu
Thriller
VSO Glossy
Xmas
Template options and timing
Templates
Basic look of the templates
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Black Mirror look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Black Mirror with Video look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Black Mirror / Black Mirror with Video
See Template options for the supported functions
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Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Black Mirror (with Chapter text) look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Black Mirror with Video (no Chapter text) look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Champestre look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Champestre
See Template options for the supported functions
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Classic look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)
Classic
See Template options for the supported functions
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CX2 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)
CX2
See Template options for the supported functions
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Default look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Thriller
See Template options for the supported functions
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VSO Glossy 2 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
VSO Glossy 3 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
VSO Glossy
See Template options for the supported functions
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Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
VSO Glossy 4 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
VSO Glossy 6 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
VSO Glossy 10 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Xmas 2 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Xmas 3 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Xmas
See Template options for the supported functions
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Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
Xmas 4 look (link to available Template options)
Title menu (with all Titleset(s) on DVD)Root menu (for each Titleset)
Chapters menu (for each Titleset) Settings menu (for each Titleset)
These pictures can also be found at forum with latest updates.
Overview of available template options
Template options
Options available for each VSO supplied template (unmodified)
PreviousTopNext
Duration of video and/or audio at menus
List of topics in the Text style Editor section.
Each topic is explained separately.
All Menu Page text style editor
Save settings Menu text style editor
Srt Subtitle text style editor
Save settings Subtitle text style editor
Set Subtitle text position
Text style Editors PreviousTopNext
Note: The modified settings are only stored in a save(d) project (xxx.XtoDVD).
Every time you start the program, it will load the default settings for the choosen template at DVD menus, from the template folder
(xxx.ini).
As long as you do not exit/close the program, it will use these settings for the Title menu.
The number of pre-defined styles is determined by the template you have chosen (list of styles is located in drop down box on the top of
this image). At most, you can have 5 pre-defined styles those being:title (used for menu titles by default), caption (used for buttons by
default), small caption (used for content in the sub menus, i.e. names of subtitles and audio streams available), "settings titles", and
"settings caption".
The "green" background picture represents here the pre-defined/designated area(box) were the text can be placed.
Every text has his own pre-defined/designated area(box) at the menu
See example below for at Title menu VSO Glossy 2 template.
The white boxes (9. 15)are the approx. area for this template.
They vary in size and place depending on the used template.
All Menu Page text style editor PreviousTopNext
You can edit the text for each area to what you prefer.
The number in red refers to the Tree View position
Offset lets you define the space between the characters (black) and the shadow (blue).
Use up / down arrows to change value. Watch text on screen what happens.
Radius
Use up / down arrows to change value. Watch text on screen what happens.
Spread
Use up / down arrows to change value. Watch text on screen what happens.
Opaque box
Check Opaque box and a box (somewhat transparent) will be placed around your text. Some prefer this for better readability.
Outline
Define the thickness of the outline desired.
You can check Square outline or not (see difference in images below). Square outline fills more pixels when outlining your text. What is
considered the most clear each varies from person to person.
Square outline disabled Square outline enabled
Misc. formatting
Angle
You can rotate the text by an angle
See text example below for Title #1 button text (15])
Anti-Aliasing
Description will later added
Multi-line text test zone (1)
Space provided for you to type your own text as an example what will show up directly in the preview window.
Background (2)
Add a Test background image from your hard drive to preview, or change the background color (using arrow).
The modified settings are only stored in a save(d) project (xxx.XtoDVD).
Every time you start the program, it will load the default settings for the selected template at DVD menus, from the
template folder (xxx.ini).
As long as you do not exit/close the program, it will use these settings for the Title menu.
At the moment, there does not exist a function to save the preferred settings in the template.ini.
I created a small workaround so you can "easily" use saved pre-settings.
Prepare your default settings project(s)
Load the DummyProject.XtoDVD from the [All test file] File / folder, found in the created test project sub-
folder.
Customize this DummyProject fully to your preferences (start with 2, then follow project "type" A and then
the link to the detailed step-by-step guide, start at section Customize project (step 2))
Save new created project with a by you desired name.
Load, customize and convert your created project
Load your newly created project.
Add the file(s) to the project what you want to be included in the conversion.
Delete (the Dummy file) Titleset (#1).
Edit the project / text (words) where necessary for the added file(s). The template and text styles used are
the ones you did set in this above newly created project.
Convert.
Save settings All Menu Pages text style editor settings PreviousTopNext
! Once you have set the preferred settings for this Subtitle stream,
you MUST save them !!
If you are using SRT subtitles you can modify the following settings to change the appearance of your subtitles. Other subtitle formats
already have their styles pre-defined and therefore will not take into account whatever content in this window. Also if you subtitles are in
Greek or Thai or in some other character formatting that does not use ANSI-latin 1, make sure to change the code page so that your
subtitles are displayed correctly on the converted result.
How does a srt subtitle File look when opened with Notepad
Example:
1
00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:00,999
1-3-5-7-9-12-15-18-21-24-27-30-
English, length 31 Arial 20
2
00:00:01,000 --> 00:00:01,999
1-3-5-7-9-12-15-18-21-24-27-30-3
English, length 32 Arial 20
Subtitle text style editor for SRT subtitles PreviousTopNext
3
00:00:02,000 --> 00:00:02,999
1-3-5-7-9-12-15-18-21-24-27-30-33
English, length 33 Arial 20
Current Style
You can save the default style with the setting you prefer and create additional styles for your subtitles and save them each with a new
name. To create a new style, click on the plus button. You will see Copy of default appear on the left, modify this name by clicking on
it and entering in the name you would like to call this style. Click on the settings you want to apply to this style. The little arrow button
resets all values to their defaults.
Font
Arial 20 is used, because this allows to display text lengths of 55 characters per line.
A normal created srt subtitle file has 50 characters per line defined.
Changing the font / size will result in a different amount of characters what will fit in one line.
The amount of characters what will fit in one line is also affected by values set at section Margin.
Select the font and font size (system Font).
In this section you can also change the code page. For more information on what Code page is please see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Code_page. The default code page (ANSI Latin 1) is the character set for Western European spoken
languages. If you are not sure what Code Page to use please consult this page which identifies different code pages:
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms776446.aspx
Use this sub-window to use a "external" font.(non system Font).
Use browser for external font (red box).
If you click on the button Font... you have the option to specify a color in HTML code.
For a more complete definition of this please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HTML_color_codes.
Colors - "Contrast"
Define the color of the text, outline(emphasis 1), shadow(emphasis 2), and the background for your subtitles. In the boxes beneath each
of these you can modify the transparency of the color applied (0-100: 0 = transparent, 100 = opaque).
Color palette for characters
Text rendering
Define if and how subtitle text should be wrapped: Evenly distributed text, Top line wider, End of line, No word wrapping, or Bottom line
wider. Define character and line spacing, and maximum number of characters to be displayed per line.
Text Align
Select how to align text in the pre-defined box/area for the used template.
You must select one of the 9 possibilities.
Margin
Define left, right, and top/bottom margin on screen (0 being the edge of screen and 535 being to the center of the screen)
Use the values determined by the visibility test (1 / 1001) to set the limits for these.
A value what is set larger as what can be displayed, will result in additional lines.
How to find the line length limit:
Go to Font section, click on font size and select the wanted font size(read first the value, normally 20), and see the value recommended
in tooltip box.
Shadow directions
Define the shadow direction used on text. Offset lets you define the space between the characters (black) and the shadow (blue).
Use up / down arrows to change value. Watch text on screen what happens.
Opaque box
Check Opaque box and a box (somewhat transparent) will be placed around your text. Some prefer this for better readability.
Change value for Shadow color (Emphasis 2) to change transparency. The higher the value, the less transparent.
Outline
Size=1(pixel)
Size=3(pixels)
Define the thickness of the outline desired.
You can check Square outline or not (see difference in images below). Square outline fills more pixels when outlining your subtitles.
What is considered the most clear each varies from person to person.
Square outline disabled Square outline enabled
! Once you have set the preferred settings for this Subtitle stream,
you MUST save them !!
Click on Save settings Subtitle text to see how to save it.
Multi-line subtitle test zone (1)
Space provided for you to type your own text as an example and see the result directly happening at "preview window".
Test Background (2)
Add a Test Background image from your hard drive , a supplied Test Background picture from the [All test file] folder or change the
background color (via arrow) to preview.
If a Test Background picture from the [All test file] folder is choosen, select the picture what matches with the value shown at Tree View,
Video -> aspect ratio.
4:3 (off) / 16:9 (on) (3)
If checked, preview will be displayed as video would be in widescreen format.
Select the value what matches with the value shown at Tree View, Video -> aspect ratio.
Safe view (4)
Display a frame that shows you the parts of the screen which may not be shown, depending on the amount of overscan done by your
TV. For more information, please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overscan
Note: If you are having a hard time seeing what each adjustment does, set font of text to 72, and enlarge the previewwindow.
How to save these modified settings, click on Save settings Subtitle text style editor
Additional information on subtitles
DVD Standard allows only 4 colors for subtitles (and the number 4 includes the background color, so the real amount is 3). What this
means is depending on the number of colors you will use in your subtitles you border and shadow may or may not show:
Number of colors used in
subtitles Border Shadow
1
2
3
Procedure how to save my preferred Subtitle style settings for SRT files.
Without a file added start here:
1) Start ConvertXtoDVD 3
2) Click [Settings]
3) Click [Subtitle]
4) Click [Subtitle text rendering settings]
From here in all cases.
5) Change the settings to your preferences.
Do NOT change the current style name.
Leave it as [vso default].(all in small characters!!!)
Now the "trick" on how to save it:
6) Move mouse-pointer on the text [vso default].
7) RIGHT-Click on it. A "box" [set as default] appears
8) LEFT-Click in the appearing dropdown "box" [set as default].
THIS IS actually a BUTTON what SETS the "VALUES" AS DEFAULT.
It is an weird function.
It looks like you must select something BUT it acts as a button.
9) Click [OK] (subtitle editor window)
10) Click [OK] (settings window)
11) Now the settings are saved and the next time you start a new project,
it will automatic use these settings (with style name vso default)
So, close the program and restart it again if you want these settings applied to the to be created project..
OR
click convert to start converting when you entered this editor via Source file info -> Subtitle file -> editor
Save SRT subtitle text style editor settings PreviousTopNext
When you want a more precise positioning regarding "safe area" , use the Test background and the
value's retrieved from visibility test.
When using Test Background ... for set the margins for Subtitle text (srt).
For the supplied Test Background picture, see the [All test files] folder found at C:\All test files\Test Backgrounds
Determination of which picture should be selected.
A] Look at 45] what the real Aspect ratio of the Source file is.
See at Tree View, Source file info -> Aspect ratio
Smaller as 1.55 take value 43.
Between 1.55 and 2.1 take value 169.
Larger then 2.1 take value 239
B] Depending on the Source file Aspect ratio and your preferred Aspect ratio setting (DVD specification), the
program "tells" you what it will use for this project conversion. See 41] Tree View, Video -> aspect ratio.
With these 2 values from A and B you can select the corresponding Test Background picture.
ABTest Background
<1,554:31_TestBackground......
1,55 - 2,14:32_TestBackground......
>2,14:33_TestBackground......
<1,5516:94_TestBackground......
1,55 - 2,116:95_TestBackground......
>2,116:96_TestBackground......
When this is used, set also the Safe area 4:3 (off) / 16:9 (on) accordingly the value from B].
Once done you can adjust the size (horizontal) of the window of the Subtitle text editor till the Test Background
picture fills the whole preview window.
You can enter some text at Multi-line subtitle test zone to see where it will be placed at the screen with a static
background picture matching your source file Aspect ratio.
See also settings for Margin.
Create test DVD
You can make a project / conversion by using a avi sample from what matches as close as possible to your
source file Aspect ratio or use a prepared project file.
Make your own
-Load a file from the below location
(C:\All test files\avi files['your Format"] \ Add file(s))
-Load also the belonging Subtitle files.
The result will give you a good indication where the text will be aligned on your screen.
A typical [Convert with burning] log look.
The log will always be saved in the English language for standardization / VSO support department
2009-11-16 09:08:13---- ******************** Log session stop 2009-11-16 09:08:13.671 PID 544********************
2009-11-16 09:08:05Inf o BURN: WRITE SUCCESS: Disc written
2009-11-16 09:08:05Inf o BURN: Finalization Time 00:00:26 - Total completion time 00:01:59
2009-11-16 09:07:39Inf o BURN: Write f inished in 00:01:33 - Finalization start here. Avg. burn rate 4,41
2009-11-16 09:06:06Inf o BURN: Lead-in burning time (mS) 481
2009-11-16 09:06:05Inf o BURN: Write started 253104 sectors to write
2009-11-16 09:06:05Inf o BURN: Init success: DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:06:05Inf o BURN: Writing speed requested x4.0, ef f ective x4.0
2009-11-16 09:06:05Inf o BURN: Format completed
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Format start
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Available write speed: 4x ,2.4x
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Media ID: RITEK-004-00
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Media type: DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Ultra DMA mode 4 (ATA66)
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Scanned f iles #7, f older #2 - total size 517261312 b. (493 Mb.)
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Inserted media type : DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:05:40Inf o BURN: Write started
2009-11-16 09:05:38---- ***************** Encoding end **********************
2009-11-16 09:05:38Inf o Disc name: "My DVD"
2009-11-16 09:05:24Inf o BURN: Rewritable disc DVD+RW inserted. Ready to erase and write
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o BURN: Compatible media types : DVD-R, DVD-RW Seq., DVD-RW RO, DVDRAM, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R, CD-RW,
DL DVD+R, DL DVD-R
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o BURN: Drive has IDE-ATAPI physical interf ace
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o BURN: New Drive selected : 1:0:0 - ASUS DRW-1608P3S 1.24 [L] (Ide)
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o Burned f older: "E:\Mijn Werken\01 - Baseball Bugs\", Min. media size 493 Mb.
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o Total size 493 Mb., Target size DVD9 8100 Mb., Occupation 6,09%
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o Conversion completed in 00:06:31
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o Rendering rate: 1,25 x Realtime
2009-11-16 09:05:22Inf o DVD duration (incl. menus) 00:08:09 (~ 489 sec.) - rendering time 00:06:31
2009-11-16 09:05:12Inf o Generated duration 472,04 sec., expected 470,77 sec.
2009-11-16 09:04:55Inf o P-SDT buf f er Underf low 1 times, 443 bytes peak
2009-11-16 09:04:55Inf o 2258 f rames dropped
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Audio settings: Automatic With DTS -> AC-3 conversion
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Output Stream #2 (AUDIO) - ac3, 48000 Hz, stereo, s16, 192 kb/s
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Output Stream #1 (VIDEO) - mpeg2video, yuv420p, 720x576 [PAR 16:15 DAR 4:3], q=1-31, 9127 kb/s, f rame
compensation: 29,969 -> 25,00 Fps
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Video processing: Pad (Lef t:0 - Top:10 - Right:0 - Bottom:10)
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Video processing: Fast linear (VSO) resampler (640*464)->(720*556)
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Chapter sequences require 249 Mb. temp space
2009-11-16 08:58:50---- ************ Source f ile #1 END DETAILS ************
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o AUDIO Stream #2 : Audio: mp3, 44100 Hz, stereo, s16, 128 kb/s
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o VIDEO Stream #1 : Video: mpeg4, yuv420p, 640x464 [PAR 1:1 DAR 40:29], 29,97 FPS
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Audio/Video f ile with 2 stream(s) - Playback order:1 - Queue:0
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Logical f ile: D:\Films\Looney Tunes\01 - Baseball Bugs.avi - 1 f ile(s) 61,9 Mb.
2009-11-16 08:58:50---- *********** Source f ile #1 BEGIN DETAILS ***********
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Video bitrate has been set to maximum possible value f or DVD specif ications. Target size may not be reached.
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Video bitrate 0/9127/9608 Kbps (min/avg/max)
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o OUTPUT ==> Resolution: FULL D1 [720*576], Format: PAL, Aspect ratio: 4:3
2009-11-16 08:58:50---- *
2009-11-16 08:58:50---- ======================= TITLESET #1 =======================
2009-11-16 08:58:50---- *
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o 2 Stream(s) f ound - est. duration 00:07:34.770, ref erence 00:07:34.770
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Opening f ile "D:\Films\Looney Tunes\01 - Baseball Bugs.avi"
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o [ ] Multicore support in resize
2009-11-16 08:58:50Inf o Project size 7,88 Gb. (10,6 Mb. audio - 7,86 Gb. video)
2009-11-16 08:58:48Inf o BURN: Rewritable disc DVD+RW inserted. Ready to erase and write
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Don't f ix audio gaps
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Engine Log
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] 2-pass encoding
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o Encoding preset: SP (Short Projects)
2009-11-16 08:58:47---- ****************** Encoding begin *******************
2009-11-16 08:58:47---- **************** Menu settings end ******************
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Don't create title menu f or single video
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Return to title menu af ter titleset playback
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Skip root menu initially
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Play titles one af ter the other
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Loop playback
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Auto-start playback
Full (conversion +burning) log look PreviousTopNext
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o Template: Black Mirror with video, contains 4 page(s), 17 customizable element(s)
2009-11-16 08:58:47---- *************** Menu settings begin *****************
2009-11-16 08:58:47---- **************** Burn settings end ******************
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o Def ault speed selected: 4x
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o BURN: Compatible media types : DVD-R, DVD-RW Seq., DVD-RW RO, DVDRAM, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R, CD-RW,
DL DVD+R, DL DVD-R
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o BURN: Drive has IDE-ATAPI physical interf ace
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o BURN: New Drive selected : 1:0:0 - ASUS DRW-1608P3S 1.24 [L] (Ide)
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Delete DVD f older af ter burn complete
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [x] Don't eject disc or open DVD f older in explorer, af ter burn complete
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o SAO setting: Automatic
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [ ] Add original f iles to DVD (if possible)
2009-11-16 08:58:47Inf o [x] Burn result to DVD / as ISO f ile in working f older
2009-11-16 08:58:47---- **************** Burn settings begin ****************
2009-11-16 08:57:42Inf o BURN: Rewritable disc DVD+RW inserted. Ready to erase and write
2009-11-16 08:57:22Inf o BURN: Parsing disc ...
2009-11-16 08:56:53Inf o 36 Menu templates loaded.
2009-11-16 08:56:52Inf o BURN: No disc in drive.
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: 1 writer(s) f ound.
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: Loaded DLL "C:\Program Files\VSO\ConvertX\4\vso_hwe.dll" [4.0.5.464]
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: Compatible media types : DVD-R, DVD-RW Seq., DVD-RW RO, DVDRAM, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R, CD-RW,
DL DVD+R, DL DVD-R
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: Drive has IDE-ATAPI physical interf ace
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: New Drive selected : 1:0:0 - ASUS DRW-1608P3S 1.24 [L] (Ide)
2009-11-16 08:56:50Inf o BURN: Using Patin-Couf f in driver Version 1.37, Internal revision 37 Async. Access mode
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o Supported instruction set: sse2
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o Maximum number of threads detected: 2
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o Tuning Perf ormances f or Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz with 2 logical core(s)
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o System def ault language : Nederlands (Nederland)
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o User def ault language : Nederlands (Nederland)
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o Version : 4.0.5.314
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o ExeName : C:\Program Files\VSO\ConvertX\4\ConvertXtoDvd.exe
2009-11-16 08:56:49Inf o OS : Microsof t Windows XP Prof essional (Build 2600: Service Pack 3)
2009-11-16 08:56:47---- ******************** Log session start 2009-11-16 08:56:47.109 PID 544********************
A typical [Burn an already converted project] log look.
The log will always be saved in the English language for standardization / VSO support department
2009-11-16 09:11:47---- ******************** Log session stop 2009-11-16 09:11:47.625 PID 3644********************
2009-11-16 09:11:40Inf o BURN: WRITE SUCCESS: Disc written
2009-11-16 09:11:40Inf o BURN: Finalization Time 00:00:27 - Total completion time 00:02:00
2009-11-16 09:11:13Inf o BURN: Write f inished in 00:01:33 - Finalization start here. Avg. burn rate 4,40
2009-11-16 09:09:40Inf o BURN: Lead-in burning time (mS) 481
2009-11-16 09:09:39Inf o BURN: Write started 253104 sectors to write
2009-11-16 09:09:39Inf o BURN: Init success: DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:09:39Inf o BURN: Writing speed requested x4.0, ef f ective x4.0
2009-11-16 09:09:39Inf o BURN: Format completed
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Format start
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Available write speed: 4x ,2.4x
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Media ID: RITEK-004-00
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Media type: DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Ultra DMA mode 4 (ATA66)
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Scanned f iles #7, f older #2 - total size 517261312 b. (493 Mb.)
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Inserted media type : DVD+RW
2009-11-16 09:09:26Inf o BURN: Write started
2009-11-16 09:09:25Inf o Disc name: "01 - Baseball Bugs"
2009-11-16 09:09:10Inf o BURN: Rewritable disc DVD+RW inserted. Ready to erase and write
2009-11-16 09:09:09Inf o BURN: Compatible media types : DVD-R, DVD-RW Seq., DVD-RW RO, DVDRAM, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R, CD-RW,
DL DVD+R, DL DVD-R
2009-11-16 09:09:09Inf o BURN: Drive has IDE-ATAPI physical interf ace
2009-11-16 09:09:09Inf o BURN: New Drive selected : 1:0:0 - ASUS DRW-1608P3S 1.24 [L] (Ide)
2009-11-16 09:09:09Inf o Burned f older: "E:\Mijn Werken\01 - Baseball Bugs\VIDEO_TS", Min. media size 493 Mb.
2009-11-16 09:08:39Inf o 36 Menu templates loaded.
2009-11-16 09:08:38Inf o BURN: Rewritable disc DVD+RW inserted. Ready to erase and write
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: 1 writer(s) f ound.
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: Loaded DLL "C:\Program Files\VSO\ConvertX\4\vso_hwe.dll" [4.0.5.464]
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: Compatible media types : DVD-R, DVD-RW Seq., DVD-RW RO, DVDRAM, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R, CD-RW,
DL DVD+R, DL DVD-R
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: Drive has IDE-ATAPI physical interf ace
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: New Drive selected : 1:0:0 - ASUS DRW-1608P3S 1.24 [L] (Ide)
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o BURN: Using Patin-Couf f in driver Version 1.37, Internal revision 37 Async. Access mode
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o Supported instruction set: sse2
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o Maximum number of threads detected: 2
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o Tuning Perf ormances f or Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz with 2 logical core(s)
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o System def ault language : Nederlands (Nederland)
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o User def ault language : Nederlands (Nederland)
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o Version : 4.0.5.314
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o ExeName : C:\Program Files\VSO\ConvertX\4\ConvertXtoDvd.exe
2009-11-16 09:08:36Inf o OS : Microsof t Windows XP Prof essional (Build 2600: Service Pack 3)
2009-11-16 09:08:33---- ******************** Log session start 2009-11-16 09:08:33.859 PID 3644********************
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does audio discrepancy mean?
A: This may appear in the log file during conversion. It is simply a note that the encoding engine makes to itself
so that it can treat the file appropriately. It does not me that you with have audio synchronization problems. Let
the conversion finish and watch it on your computer before burning if you want to be sure the file is fine before
burning it to DVD.
Q: How come I do not see my subtitles?
A: When watching your DVD on your living room DVD player hit the subtitle button on your remote control for
your subtitles to appear.
Q: What does unsupported encoder for output stream mean?
A: It means that in this version there is no support for the file format that you have added. Future versions of
ConvertXtoDVD may support that file format. Check regularly for version updates or contact VSO to inquire about
the file format.
Q: Can my computer be shutdown automatically after the conversion has finished?
A: Yes, open ConvertXtoDVD go to main menu: Action and check Shutdown when finished.
Q; Why does nothing show up in the preview window?
A: If the preview window is not functioning properly, make sure you have the latest version of Microsoft DirectX
installed on your computer. Run Windows Update to obtain latest version of DirectX
FAQ PreviousTopNext
Q: I have a question not answered here. Where do I get help?
A: First, please visit our forum community, where others share their knowledge and tips. Often you will be able to
find your answer there quickly: http://forums.vso-software.fr
If you could not get help from the forums, or need to contact us directly, please visit the support section of our
website: http://www.vso-software.fr/support.php
List of topics in the Appendix section.
Each topic is explained separately.
True source file Aspect ratio 4:3 versus resize method
True source file Aspect ratio 16:9 versus resize method
Full overview of possible conversions
Automatic loading of Subtitle
What is Pulldown
What is Frames dropped & added
List of errors
Opacity
Appendix PreviousTopNext
4:3 Aspect ratio output selected
The images below are have been specially created to demonstrate what parts of the image (of your
video file) will be lost or changed (stretched/cropped) depending on the settings applied in the video
resize window. The changes are all related to the original aspect ratio of your video file (before
conversion).
Note: You can find the Aspect ratio of your original added file under the Source file info topic.
Case 1: Source file with true Aspect ratio 4:3
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it. (within blue box)
Resize: Automatic, Stretch, Letterbox and Pan-scan
(It makes no difference what resize method you use.)
Picture: Nothing lost, Aspect ratio ok. Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Aspect ratio 4:3 (Result size) with different resize methods applied using 3 common
movie sizes (original Aspect ratios)
Demonstrates what result will be on final DVD.
This could be different as what you might see on your TV. (Depend on DVD player and TV
settings)
PreviousTopNext
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Case 2: Source file with true Aspect ratio 16:9
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it. (within blue box)
Resize: Automatic
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok (not squeezed or stretched), padded and cropped("data" loss) i.e. black bars
added on top and bottom to preserve Aspect ratio. Full overview.
Resize: Stretch
Resize: Stretch
Picture: Full screen filled, distorted (Aspect ratio), no "data" loss, image stretched towards top and bottom in
order to fill what would have been otherwise black bars. Full overview.
Resize: Letterbox
Picture: Aspect ratio ok, no "data" loss, only padded black bars at top and bottom of image in order to prevent
image distortion, i.e. preserve original aspect ratio. Full overview.
Resize: Pan-Scan
Resize: Pan-Scan
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, cropped.left and right ("data" loss). Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Case 3: Source file with true Aspect ratio 2.39:1
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it. (within blue box)
Resize: Automatic
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, padded on top and bottom by black bars and cropped on left and right
("data" loss). Full overview.
Resize: Stretch
Picture: Full screen filled, distorted (Aspect ratio), no "data" loss. Full overview.
Resize: Letterbox
Picture: Aspect ratio ok, no "data" loss, only padded top and bottom. Full overview.
Resize: Pan-Scan
Resize: Pan-Scan
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, cropped left and right ("data" loss). Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Note: Your television and DVD player can have their own aspect ratio settings and they will override the settings
on your burnt DVD. Watch your DVD on your computer to see what the real settings were that were applied to
your DVD, if the same DVD is displayed differently on your living room player, then check to change your
television and DVD player settings.
16:9 Aspect ratio output selected
The images below are have been specially created to demonstrate what parts of the image (of your
video file) will be lost or changed (stretched/cropped) depending on the settings applied in the video
resize window. The changes are all related to the original aspect ratio of your video file (before
conversion)
Note: You can find the Aspect ratio of your original added file under the Source file info topic.
Case 1: Source file with true Aspect ratio 4:3
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it. (within blue box)
Resize: Automatic
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, padded on left and right sides and cropped on top and bottom ("data loss)".
Full overview.
Resize: Stretch
Aspect ratio 16:9 (Result size) with different resize methods applied using 3 common
movie sizes (original Aspect ratios)
Demonstrates what result will be on final DVD.
This could be different as what you might see on your TV. (Depend on DVD player and TV
settings)
PreviousTopNext
Resize: Stretch
Picture: Full screen filled, distorted (Aspect ratio) / image squeezed, no "data" loss. Full overview.
Resize: Letterbox
Picture: Aspect ratio ok, no "data" loss, only padded on left and right sides. Full overview.
Resize: Pan-Scan
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, "data" loss, cropped on top and bottom. Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Case 2: Source file with true Aspect ratio 16:9
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it. (within blue box)
Resize: ALL
It makes no difference what resize method you use.
Picture: Nothing lost, Aspect ratio ok. Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Case 3: Source file with true Aspect ratio 2.39:1
Resulting in a compliant DVD video folder (VIDEO_TS) with this "data" in it.(within blue box)
Resize: Automatic
Picture: "Blown up", Aspect ratio ok, padded on top and bottom and cropped on left and right ("data" loss). Full
overview.
Resize: Stretch
Picture: Full screen filled, distorted (Aspect ratio) / image squeezed, no "data" loss. Full overview.
Resize: Letterbox
Resize: Letterbox
Picture: Aspect ratio ok, no "data" loss, only padded on top and bottom. Full overview.
Resize: Pan-Scan
Picture: "blown up", Aspect ratio ok, "data" loss, cropped left and right. Full overview.
Resize: User-defined
Can be any size, good looking or not.
YOUR decision.
Note: Your television and DVD player can have their own aspect ratio settings and they will override the settings
on your burnt DVD. Watch your DVD on your computer to see what the real settings were that were applied to
your DVD, if the same DVD is displayed differently on your living room player, then check to change your
television and DVD player settings.
The following groups of pictures show you the resulting conversion from a certain Video Source Aspect Ratio file, using one of the various resize methods and
a DVD specification, Aspect Ratio set to 4:3 or 16:9. Depending on the conversion settings, the picture can become distorted, padded or cropped. Please
note that the picture may display slightly different based on the settings of your standalone DVD player and TV. (The below pictures show, what "data" will be
available on the disc)
How to interpret the pictures
Each resize method column shows how the picture looks like. Only the Letterbox column shows the original picture size (without blue bars) of the Video
Source Aspect Ratio .
Blue bars indicate padded black bars. (Blue is used here for better visibility.)
The arrow points (triangles) indicate where the borders are and what part is cropped.
The circle indicates the distortion intensity, skewing the original aspect ratio.
User defined AR is not shown because it can be any size.
Video Source Aspect Ratio: 1.0
Various resulting conversions from selected Resize method and Aspect ratio.
PreviousTopNext
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
Video Source Aspect Ratio: 1.2
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
Display
test
4:3
avi
4:3
Video Source Aspect Ratio: 1.4
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
Video Source Aspect Ratio: 1.9
16:9
Display
test
16:9
avi
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
Video Source Aspect Ratio: 2.1
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
DVD
AR
Letterbox Automatic Pan-Scan Stretch
4:3
16:9
Automatic loading of subtitle file(s)
It is possible to automatically load additional subtitle file(s) (max. 32 streams) when adding video file(s).
To get this feature working, the names of the additional files should meet the listed specifications below:
For example:
Name video: MyMovie.avi
Name subtitle1: MyMovieFR.srt
Name subtitle2: ENGmymovie.srt
Name subtitle3: MyMovie.srt
-The bold text, in this case Mymovie, should appear in the to be added file(s). It is not case sensitive. Do not
have extra spaces.
-It may start or end with it See some examples. You will understand why, when you work with/edit the Subtitle at
Tree View.
-The files must be located in the same folder as the movie file.
Subtitles are not shown in the Video Preview when converting.
A message is shown below Video Preview that "Encoded subtitles are not visible during conversion"
when subtitles are being added while converting.
No message appears when there are no streams where subtitles can be added from.
Note: Be sure that the subtitle framerate matches with your loaded video file, otherwise you end up with a subtitle
what out of sync is.
If you have a PAL (25 Fps) video, have a subtitle what has the same framerate.
NTSC (29.97 Fps) video needs a subtitle file with 29.97 Fps.
Frames dropped / added
From the book How Video Works.
Quote:
Non-Drop-Frame and Drop-Frame Timecode
When timecode was created, video was still monochromatic and
ran at an exact 30 fps. With the advent of color in analog video,
the scanning frequency slowed video to 29.97 fps. In other words, it
takes more than 1 second to scan a full 30 frames. In fact, it takes
1.03 seconds to scan 30 frames of color video.
The original timecode labeling system still applied, but because of
the slower rate of color video, there was a difference between actual
clock time and the timecode reference of time. If every color video
frame was numbered sequentially with the original 30 fps time-
code, at the end of an hour the timecode would read 59 minutes,
56 seconds, and 12 frames, or 3 seconds and 18 frames short of
an hour, even though the program ran a full hour. There are fewer
frames per second and thus fewer frames in an hour.
Broadcast programs have to be an exact length of time in order
to maintain a universal schedule. In order to allow timecode to be
used as a reference to clock time for color video, SMPTE created a
new method of timecoding that made up for the 3 seconds and 18
frames, or 108-frame difference. It was determined that numbers
should be dropped from the continuous code by advancing the clock
at regular intervals. By doing this, there would be an hour's dura-
tion in timecode numbers at the end of an hour's worth of time.
The specific formula SMPTE created began by advancing the clock
by two frames of timecode numbers each minute, except every tenth
minute (10, 20, 30, and so on). By advancing 2 frames on every min-
ute, a total of 120 frames, or 12 more than the 108 frames needed,
would be dropped. But 2 frames dropped from every minute except
the tens of minutes would be 54 minutes 2 frames per minute,
which equals 108 frames, accounting for the necessary amount of
frames to identify a true clock time period. SMPTE named the new
alternative method of time coding color video drop-frame timecode in
reference to its process. Drop-frame timecode is sometimes referred
to as time of day or TOD, timecode. The original 30 fps continuous
code was subsequently termed non-drop-frame timecode (Figure 18.2).
In drop-frame timecode, the timecode is always advanced by skip-
ping the first two frame numbers of each minute except every tenth
minute. For example, the numbering sequence would go from
1:06:59:29 on one frame to 1:07:00:02 on the very next frame (see
Figure 18.2). The two frame numbers that are skipped are 1:07:00:00
and 1:07:00:01. At the tenth minute, no numbers are skipped.
The numbering sequence at each tenth minute would go from, for
example, 1:29:59:29 on one frame to 1:30:00:00 on the next.
Frames dropped & added (timecode) PreviousTopNext
A convention is followed when working with timecode numbers
that helps to identify whether they represent drop-frame or non-
drop-frame timecode. If the punctuation before the frames value
is a semi-colon, such as 1:07:00;00, it is drop-frame timecode. If
there is a colon dividing the frames, such as 1:07:00:00, it is non-
drop-frame timecode.
Like non-drop-frame timecode, drop-frame timecode leaves no
frames of video unlabeled, and no frames of picture information are
deleted. The numbers that are skipped do not upset the ascending
order that is necessary for some editing systems to read and cue to
the timecode. At the end of an hour's worth of material, there will
be an hour's duration reflected in the timecode number as well.
Drop-frame timecode has been adopted for longer format pro-
grams where it is necessary to account for a specific amount of
time. Many shorter programs and commercials use non-drop frame
timecode because the difference in the frame count is insignificant.
For example, a 1-minute commercial will show a 2-frame differ-
ence between its actual length and the timecode numbers, if it is
using non-drop frame timecode. A 10-minute program will show
an 18-frame difference, or a little over a half second. However, the
3:18 frame difference in a 1-hour program would be too big a dis-
crepancy to be tolerated within a broadcast environment.
Timecode at 24 Frames Per Second
While the terms 24 fps and 30 fps are used for convenience, the true
frame rates that most systems use are 23.976 fps and 29.97 fps
respectively. SMPTE timecode for video runs at the same frame rate
the video does, 29.97 fps in drop-frame timecode mode. Timecode
used in the 24 fps video system runs at 23.976 fps, also referred to
as 23.98. There are no drop-frame or non-drop-frame modes in a
24 fps system because there are no conflicting monochrome versus
color frames rates as there were in the original video systems devel-
oped by the NTSC. As a single frame rate is decided upon and the
synchronization is fixed, a timecode system is developed to keep
clock accurate time. Had the original NTSC system started with
color, the timecode system developed simultaneously would have
eliminated the need for more than one type of timecode.
This alteration in the frame rate from 24 fps to 23.98 fps was nec-
essary to simplify the 24 fps to 30 fps conversion. Without it, con-
verting true 24 fps images and timecode to the existing 29.97 frame
rate in video would be much more complex. When converting
24 fps film or HD to 30 fps video, the additional timecode numbers
are added as the additional frames are added. When transferring
the other way, from 30 fps to 24 fps, the additional numbers are
deleted and the timecode is resequenced as the additional fields
and frames are deleted.
Quote end.
Source info:How Video Works
Second edition
by:Marcus Weise
Diana Weynand
Publisher:Elsevier, 2007
How CD Burners Work (a DVD works the same but with smaller "tracks")
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/cd-burner.htm
by Tom Harris
The information below is copied and pasted from the link above:
CD Basics: The Bumps
A CD has a long, spiraled data track. If you were to unwind this track, it would extend out 3.5 miles (5 km).
If you've read How CDs Work, you understand the basic idea of CD technology. CDs store music and other files in digital form --
that is, the information on the disc is represented by a series of 1s and 0s (see How Analog and Digital Recording Works for more
information). In conventional CDs, these 1s and 0s are represented by millions of tiny bumps and flat areas on the disc's reflective
surface. The bumps and flats are arranged in a continuous track that measures about 0.5 microns (millionths of a meter) across
and 3.5 miles (5 km) long.
To read this information, the CD player passes a laser beam over the track. When the laser passes over a flat area in the track,
the beam is reflected directly to an optical sensor on the laser assembly. The CD player interprets this as a 1.
Reflected
When the beam passes over a bump, the light is bounced away from the optical sensor. The CD player recognizes this as a 0.
Deflected / Bounced away
A CD player guides a small laser along the CD's data track.
In conventional CDs, the flat areas, or lands, reflect the light back to the laser assembly; the bumps deflect the light so it does not
bounce back.
Understanding the CD: Bumps
How a CD / DVD works PreviousTopNext
The elongated bumps that make up the track are each 0.5 microns wide, a minimum of 0.83 microns long and 125 nanometers
high. (A nanometer is a billionth of a meter.) Looking through the polycarbonate layer at the bumps, they look something like this:
You will often read about "pits" on a CD instead of bumps. They appear as pits on the aluminum side, but on the side the laser
reads from, they are bumps.
The incredibly small dimensions of the bumps make the spiral track on a CD extremely long. If you could lift the data track off a
CD and stretch it out into a straight line, it would be 0.5 microns wide and almost 3.5 miles (5 km) long!
Reading CDs
In the last section, we saw that conventional CDs store digital data as a pattern of bumps and flat areas, arranged in a long spiral
track. The CD fabrication machine uses a high-powered laser to etch the bump pattern into photoresist material coated onto a
glass plate. Through an elaborate imprinting process, this pattern is pressed onto acrylic discs. The discs are then coated with
aluminum (or another metal) to create the readable reflective surface. Finally, the disc is coated with a transparent plastic layer
that protects the reflective metal from nicks, scratches and debris.
The different layers of a conventional CD
As you can see, this is a fairly complex, delicate operation, involving many steps and several different materials. Like most
complex manufacturing processes (from newspaper printing to television assembly), conventional CD manufacturing isn't practical
for home use. It's only feasible for manufacturers who produce hundreds, thousands or millions of CD copies.
Consequently, conventional CDs have remained a "read only" storage medium for the average consumer, like LPs or conventional
DVDs. To audiophiles accustomed to recordable cassettes, as well as computer users who were fed up with the limited memory
capacity of floppy disks, this limitation seemed like a major drawback of CD technology. In the early '90s, more and more
consumers and professionals were looking for a way to make their own CD-quality digital recordings.
Writing CDs
In response to this demand, electronics manufacturers introduced an alternative sort of CD that could be encoded in a few easy
steps. CD-recordable discs, or CD-Rs, don't have any bumps or flat areas at all. Instead, they have a smooth reflective metal
layer, which rests on top of a layer of photosensitive dye.
When the disc is blank, the dye is translucent: Light can shine through and reflect off the metal surface. But when you heat the
dye layer with concentrated light of a particular frequency and intensity, the dye turns opaque: It darkens to the point that light
can't pass through.
A CD-R doesn't have the same bumps and lands as a conventional CD. Instead, the disc has a dye layer underneath a
smooth, reflective surface. On a blank CD-R disc, the dye layer is completely translucent, so all light reflects. The write
laser darkens the spots where the bumps would be in a conventional CD, forming non-reflecting areas.
By selectively darkening particular points along the CD track, and leaving other areas of dye translucent, you can create a digital
pattern that a standard CD player can read. The light from the player's laser beam will only bounce back to the sensor when the
dye is left translucent, in the same way that it will only bounce back from the flat areas of a conventional CD. So, even though the
CD-R disc doesn't have any bumps pressed into it at all, it behaves just like a standard disc.
A CD burner's job, of course, is to "burn" the digital pattern onto a blank CD. In the next section, we'll look inside a burner to see
how it accomplishes this task.
Erasing CDs
In the last section, we looked at the most prevalent writable CD technology, CD-R. CD-R discs hold a lot of data, work with most
CD players and are fairly inexpensive. But unlike tapes, floppy disks and many other data-storage mediums, you cannot re-record
on CD-R disc once you've filled it up.
CD-RW discs have taken the idea of writable CDs a step further, building in an erase function so you can record over old data you
don't need anymore. These discs are based on phase-change technology. In CD-RW discs, the phase-change element is a
chemical compound of silver, antimony, tellurium and indium. As with any physical material, you can change this compound's form
by heating it to certain temperatures. When the compound is heated above its melting temperature (around 600 degrees Celsius),
it becomes a liquid; at its crystallization temperature (around 200 degrees Celsius), it turns into a solid.
In a CD-RW disc, the reflecting lands and non-reflecting bumps of a conventional CD are represented by phase shifts in
a special compound. When the compound is in a crystalline state, it is translucent, so light can shine through to the
metal layer above and reflect back to the laser assembly. When the compound is melted into an amorphous state, it
becomes opaque, making the area non-reflective.
Phase-change Compounds
In phase-change compounds, these shifts in form can be "locked into place": They persist even after the material cools down
again. If you heat the compound in CD-RW discs to the melting temperature and let it cool rapidly, it will remain in a fluid,
amorphous state, even though it is below the crystallization temperature. In order to crystallize the compound, you have to keep it
at the crystallization temperature for a certain length of time so that it turns into a solid before it cools down again.
In the compound used in CD-RW discs, the crystalline form is translucent while the amorphous fluid form will absorb most light.
On a new, blank CD, all of the material in the writable area is in the crystalline form, so light will shine through this layer to the
reflective metal above and bounce back to the light sensor. To encode information on the disc, the CD burner uses its write laser,
which is powerful enough to heat the compound to its melting temperature. These "melted" spots serve the same purpose as the
bumps on a conventional CD and the opaque spots on a CD-R: They block the "read" laser so it won't reflect off the metal layer.
Each non-reflective area indicates a 0 in the digital code. Every spot that remains crystalline is still reflective, indicating a 1.
The Erase Laser
As with CD-Rs, the read laser does not have enough power to change the state of the material in the recording layer -- it's a lot
weaker than the write laser. The erase laser falls somewhere in between: While it isn't strong enough to melt the material, it does
have the necessary intensity to heat the material to the crystallization point. By holding the material at this temperature, the erase
laser restores the compound to its crystalline state, effectively erasing the encoded 0. This clears the disc so new data can be
encoded.
CD-RW discs do not reflect as much light as older CD formats, so they cannot be read by most older CD players and CD-ROM
drives. Some newer drives and players, including all CD-RW writers, can adjust the read laser to work with different CD formats.
But since CD-RWs will not work on many CD players, these are not a good choice for music CDs. For the most part, they are
used as back-up storage devices for computer files.
As we've seen, the reflective and non-reflective patterns on a CD are incredibly small, and they are burned and read very quickly
with a speeding laser beam. In this system, the chances of a data error are fairly high. In the next section, we'll look at some of
the ways that CD burners compensate for various encoding problems.
DVD Disks
DVD Fact
The first DVD player hit the market in March 1997.
A DVD is very similar to a CD, but it has a much larger data capacity. A standard DVD holds about seven times more data than a
CD does. This huge capacity means that a DVD has enough room to store a full-length, MPEG-2-encoded movie, as well as a lot
of other information.
Here are the typical contents of a DVD movie:
* Up to 133 minutes of high-resolution video, in letterbox or pan-and-scan format, with 720 dots of horizontal resolution (The
video compression ratio is typically 40:1 using MPEG-2 compression.)
* Soundtrack presented in up to eight languages using 5.1 channel Dolby digital surround sound
* Subtitles in up to 32 languages
DVD can also be used to store almost eight hours of CD-quality music per side.
The format offers many advantages over VHS tapes:
* DVD picture quality is better, and many DVDs have Dolby Digital or DTS sound, which is much closer to the sound you
experience in a movie theater.
* Many DVD movies have an on-screen index, where the creator of the DVD has labeled many of the significant parts of the
movie, sometimes with a picture. With your remote, if you select the part of the movie you want to view, the DVD player will take
you right to that part, with no need to rewind or fast-forward.
* DVD players are compatible with audio CDs.
* Some DVD movies have both the letterbox format, which fits wide-screen TVs, and the standard TV size format, so you can
choose which way you want to watch the movie.
* DVD movies may have several soundtracks on them, and they may provide subtitles in different languages. Foreign movies
may give you the choice between the version dubbed into your language, or the original soundtrack with subtitles in your language.
DVD Layers
DVDs are of the same diameter and thickness as CDs, and they are made using some of the same materials and manufacturing
methods. Like a CD, the data on a DVD is encoded in the form of small pits and bumps in the track of the disc.
A DVD is composed of several layers of plastic, totaling about 1.2 millimeters thick. Each layer is created by injection molding
polycarbonate plastic. This process forms a disc that has microscopic bumps arranged as a single, continuous and extremely
long spiral track of data. More on the bumps later.
Once the clear pieces of polycarbonate are formed, a thin reflective layer is sputtered onto the disc, covering the bumps.
Aluminum is used behind the inner layers, but a semi-reflective gold layer is used for the outer layers, allowing the laser to focus
through the outer and onto the inner layers. After all of the layers are made, each one is coated with lacquer, squeezed together
and cured under infrared light. For single-sided discs, the label is silk-screened onto the nonreadable side. Double-sided discs are
printed only on the nonreadable area near the hole in the middle. Cross sections of the various types of completed DVDs (not to
scale) look like this:
DVD formats
Data tracks on a DVD
Each writable layer of a DVD has a spiral track of data. On single-layer DVDs, the track always circles from the inside of the disc
to the outside. That the spiral track starts at the center means that a single-layer DVD can be smaller than 12 centimeters if
desired.
What the image to the right cannot impress upon you is how incredibly tiny the data track is -- just 740 nanometers separate one
track from the next (a nanometer is a billionth of a meter). And the elongated bumps that make up the track are each 320
nanometers wide, a minimum of 400 nanometers long and 120 nanometers high. The following figure illustrates looking through the
polycarbonate layer at the bumps.
DVD pit layout
You will often read about "pits" on a DVD instead of bumps. They appear as pits on the aluminum side, but on the side that the
laser reads from, they are bumps.
The microscopic dimensions of the bumps make the spiral track on a DVD extremely long. If you could lift the data track off a
single layer of a DVD, and stretch it out into a straight line, it would be almost 7.5 miles long! That means that a double-sided,
double-layer DVD would have 30 miles (48 km) of data!
To read bumps this small you need an incredibly precise disc-reading mechanism.
DVD Storage Capacity
DVDs can store more data than CDs for a few reasons:
* Higher-density data storage
* Less overhead, more area
* Multi-layer storage
Higher Density Data Storage
Single-sided, single-layer DVDs can store about seven times more data than CDs. A large part of this increase comes from the
pits and tracks being smaller on DVDs.
Let's try to get an idea of how much more data can be stored due to the physically tighter spacing of pits on a DVD. The track
pitch on a DVD is 2.16 times smaller, and the minimum pit length for a single-layer DVD is 2.08 times smaller than on a CD. By
multiplying these two numbers, we find that there is room for about 4.5 times as many pits on a DVD. So where does the rest of
the increase come from?
Less Overhead, More Area
On a CD, there is a lot of extra information encoded on the disc to allow for error correction -- this information is really just a
repetition of information that is already on the disc. The error correction scheme that a CD uses is quite old and inefficient
compared to the method used on DVDs. The DVD format doesn't waste as much space on error correction, enabling it to store
much more real information. Another way that DVDs achieve higher capacity is by encoding data onto a slightly larger area of the
disc than is done on a CD.
Multi-Layer Storage
To increase the storage capacity even more, a DVD can have up to four layers, two on each side. The laser that reads the disc
can actually focus on the second layer through the first layer. Here is a list of the capacities of different forms of DVDs:
You may be wondering why the capacity of a DVD doesn't double when you add a whole second layer to the disc. This is because
when a disc is made with two layers, the pits have to be a little longer, on both layers, than when a single layer is used. This helps
to avoid interference between the layers, which would cause errors when the disc is played.
DVD Video
DVD Fact
If an average DVD movie were uncompressed, it would take at least a year to download it over a normal phone line.
Even though its storage capacity is huge, the uncompressed video data of a full-length movie would never fit on a DVD. In order to
fit a movie on a DVD, you need video compression. A group called the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) establishes the
standards for compressing moving pictures.
When movies are put onto DVDs, they are encoded in MPEG-2 format and then stored on the disc. This compression format is a
widely accepted international standard. Your DVD player contains an MPEG-2 decoder, which can uncompress this data as
quickly as you can watch it.
The MPEG-2 Format and Data Size Reduction
A movie is usually filmed at a rate of 24 frames per second. This means that every second, there are 24 complete images
displayed on the movie screen. American and Japanese television use a format called NTSC, which displays a total of 30 frames
per second; but it does this in a sequence of 60 fields, each of which contains alternating lines of the picture. Other countries use
PAL format, which displays at 50 fields per second, but at a higher resolution (see How Video Formatting Works for details on
these formats). Because of the differences in frame rate and resolution, an MPEG movie needs to be formatted for either the NTSC
or the PAL system.
The MPEG encoder that creates the compressed movie file analyzes each frame and decides how to encode it. The compression
uses some of the same technology as still image compression does to eliminate redundant or irrelevant data. It also uses
information from other frames to reduce the overall size of the file. Each frame can be encoded in one of three ways:
* As an intraframe - An intraframe contains the complete image data for that frame. This method of encoding provides the least
compression.
* As a predicted frame - A predicted frame contains just enough information to tell the DVD player how to display the frame
based on the most recently displayed intraframe or predicted frame. This means that the frame contains only the data that relates
to how the picture has changed from the previous frame.
* As a bidirectional frame - In order to display this type of frame, the player must have the information from the surrounding
intraframe or predicted frames. Using data from the closest surrounding frames, it uses interpolation (something like averaging) to
calculate the position and color of each pixel.
Depending on the type of scene being converted, the encoder will decide which types of frames to use. If a newscast were being
converted, a lot more predicted frames could be used, because most of the scene is unaltered from one frame to the next. On the
other hand, if a very fast action scene were being converted, in which things changed very quickly from one frame to the next, more
intraframes would have to be encoded. The newscast would compress to a much smaller size than the action sequence.
If all of this sounds complicated, then you are starting to get a feeling for how much work your DVD player does to decode an
MPEG-2 movie. A lot of processing power is required; even some computers with DVD players can't keep up with the processing
required to play a DVD movie.
Burning errors reference:
http://www.cdr-zone.com/articles/atapi_error_codes_page_1.html
This will be always a
section
[All test files] File / folder
A separately downloadable File is available with pre-defined projects and its belonging files.
Download File from this forum sub-page: http://forums.vso-software.fr/extra-tools-and-how-to-s-f21.html
It is in the topic: Download link where to get the [All test files] File
The files in the File are in PAL and NTSC Format.
This File will extract itself in C:\
Do not change this location because when you receive a project file [file name].XtoDVD, it will not work when not
installed at this default place.
This place is found on every Windows system PC, independent of installed Windows version (W200, XP, Vista).
The test project numbers 1 to 999 are for PAL Format
The test project numbers 1001 to 1999 are for NTSC Format
Test projects
Visibility test
Subtitle test
Title and Chapter menu test
Dummy file project
Subtitle test (2, 3, 1002 and 1003)
What does Subtitle test project contain?
- It is a single Title(set) project.
- It has one stream of 15 merged avi's and every avi file has 7 subtitle streams.
- The Chapter menu has 15 chapters.
- The avi's are in true aspect ratio and start at 1:1 up to 2.39:1, stepping up at a 0.1 increase of aspect ratio on each avi file.
- The subtitles have a first line of "Text" what starts with 30 characters.
Every second that the Title plays, "Text" will increase with one(1) character.
- Stream 1 has language identifier German (de).
"Text" in Red color.
- Stream 2 has language identifier English (en) and set as default.
"Text" in white color, Arial 20
- Stream 3 has language identifier Spanish (es)
"Text" in white color, Arial Narrow 20
- Stream 4 has language identifier French (fr)
"Text" in white color, Arial 24
- Stream 5 has language identifier Dutch (nl)
No feature added at the moment.
-Stream 6 has language identifier Portugese (pt)
No feature added at the moment.
-Stream 7 has language identifier Greek (el)
Different Code Page (1253) for an example/check.
What can i see/do with this project?
1] Burn a DVD RW for testing on your stand-alone player.
2] Edit settings in the project and save it under a different name.
3] You have a colored stream of "Text".
4] You can see the difference when using different Font types (Arial and Arial Narrow).
Could be useful when having a widescreen television.
Arial Narrow gives the better look that "Text" is not stretched horizontal.
5] What the program does when "Text" is too long at a line.
-With this feature you can see when the characters "fall off" the screen.
Use pause button on remote to freeze playing when it gets close to the point of "falling off".
6] What the program does when font size is too big.
7] Get the subtitle "aligned" to the source file aspect ratio.
What test file do i use?
2 - Subtitle test file if you live in a country what has PAL as Format and you have a 4:3 Aspect ratio movie.
1002 - Subtitle test file if you live in a country what has NTSC as Format and you have a 4:3 Aspect ratio movie.
Subtitle test (2, 3, 1002 and 1003)
In this section you will find a description what can be "done" with each project.
PreviousTopNext
3 - Subtitle test file if you live in a country what has PAL as Format and you have a 16:9 Aspect ratio movie.
1003 - Subtitle test file if you live in a country what has NTSC as Format and you have a 16:9 Aspect ratio movie.
This is the true source character style in the Subtitle text overlay when DVD specificatoin is: Full D1 and Aspect ratio 4:3 and source file
is 4:3 Aspect ratio.
and
- the result when played at a 4:3 TV system.
- the result when same subtitle is played at a 16:9 TV system and source file is 16:9 Aspect ratio.
The Subpicture overlay is horizontally stretched.
If you use the Arial Narrow font with the settings of Arial, you will end up with a more normal looking character.
4, 5, 1004 and 1005 - Title and Chapter menu test
This test was originally designed to test the navigation and correct displaying of title and chapter at their position
at template menu.
Can be used for making a test DVD with using a different template for to see how it looks when played at a DVD
player.
These are short files, so you have in no time the look of the several menus for a certain template generated and
burned on DVD (use a RW disc).
Title(set) 1
15 merged files for checking Chapter menu generation/ chapter points.
Title(set) 2-15
14 added files for checking Title menu generation.
List of topics in the Merge window section.
Each topic is explained separately.
How to enter merge window
Merge window editing
Merging files using Drag and drop