Easy DVD Burning

Tip #1:  Enable DMA (Direct Memory Access)

Modern drives already have this feature that allows access to system memory for reading and/or writing independently of the central processing unit. Enabling DMA can significantly improved DVD ripping speed.

Steps on how to enable DMA in Windows XP
Open control panel. Double click on system icon then click on the hardware tab. Launch device manager by clicking on the Device Manager button. On the device manager window expand IDE controllers and DVD/CD-ROM drives. Double click on your hard drive and then click on the Advance Settings tab. Set the transfer mode to DMA if available. Same goes with your DVD drives.

Note: If the Advanced Settings tab is not available or not showing in your IDE channels or DVD drives properties window, you may need to enable it first in the system BIOS during startup. For some Intel motherboard users with Intel chipset, Advanced Settings tab may not also be showing. In this case you might need to download and install the Intel Application Accelerator for this will automatically enables DMA on devices which support it.


Tip #2: Flash Firmware

For whatever reasons, some DVD-ROM manufacturers may have purposely limit the DVD ripping speed of their device. By flashing it with an updated/hacked firmware may override its ripping speed and other limitations set by the manufacturer.

Important: DO NOT flash the firmware of your DVD drive if you’re not 100% sure of the new firmware as it will result to a permanent damage on your device.

Tip #3: Re-install IDE Controller

Some users have tried and reported that after they have re-installed their primary IDE controller it improved the ripping speed of their system. Follow the steps below on how to re-install your primary IDE controller in Win XP.

Steps on how to re-install IDE Controller in Windows XP
Open Control Panel. Double click on the system icon then click on hardware tab. Launch device manager by clicking on the Device Manager tab. On the device manager window, expand IDE controller by clicking on the [+] sign and then right click on your Primary IDE Channel and select Uninstall. After uninstalling restart your computer and Windows will automatically re-install your IDE Controller.


Tip #4: Install Latest ASPI Layers

This step has never been proven to be a 100% effective because some users have reported that they see a performance increase in ripping speed after they have installed the latest ASPI layers but for some it’s the opposite. Perhaps you can try to experiment which one works best for you. No need to worry because the ASPI layers are easy to install/un-install. 

Tip #5: Try another DVD ripper

If you’re not satisfied with the performance of your current DVD ripper maybe other DVD ripping software will work best with your system. You never know you may experience better results with another ripper. Click to see our available DVD Ripping Tool.


Tip #6: Disabling Plextor 708As Noise Reduction Function

This only applies to Plextor 708A's but it makes a big difference, copied from manual:

Switching Between SpeedRead and Silent Operation
When you are playing a DVD-Video disc that has CSS (copy protection
via the Content Scrambling System), the PX-708A normally plays at a
slow speed (silent operation) to reduce drive noise. You can speed up
DVD playback by using the eject button to enable SpeedRead.
To manually enable SpeedRead and speed up DVD playback:
1. Ensure the PX-708A disc tray is closed and empty.
2. Press and hold the PX-708A's eject button for at least 3 seconds. The
LED indicator blinks green three times to indicate SpeedRead will
be active for DVD-Video discs with CSS copy protection.
3. Release the eject button. The disc tray opens.
4. Insert a DVD-Video disc that is equipped with CSS copy protection.
5. Begin playing the disc

Update: Those who wish to have more control over this setting (amongst an array of others) can purchase PlexTools, a software package released by Plextor allowing enhancements to specific functions.

Tip #7: If all else fails….

If none of these tips seem to work try another DVD Drive/Burner.