Saturday, Jun 4, 2005    Text size: 

“This new format makes sharing DVDs possible like MP3 did for audio CDs,” said Peter Jensen, ratDVD lead developer. “Comparing ratDVD with conventional compression methods like MPEG-4, H264, DivX or XviD is like comparing DVD with VHS.”

The software, developed by university students in Denmark and Russia, allows users to compress an entire 9 gigabyte DVD into a single .ratDVD container file smaller than 3 gigabytes and, in some cases, as low as 1 gigabyte, depending on settings.

What makes ratDVD truly unique, according to Jensen, is that the compression method preserves all DVD features, including complete menus, anamorphic picture, seamless branching, jump-to-scene, multiple angles and extras such as bonus material and behind-the-scenes footage.

Currently, most ripping technologies allow only for transfer of linear files, without any extras.

“Unless you use ratDVD, you get only parts of the video but lose everything that makes DVD special,” Jensen said.

Once the DVD is compressed, it can be played back on a computer or converted back to full-sized DVDs compatible with any player.

ratDVD requires Microsoft Windows XP, DirectX 9.0 and Windows Media Player 10.

XBiz has asked several adult studios to test drive the software to see whether they believe it’s a threat. We will publish the results as they become available.