DVD video playback

[Scott]

I tried to play a dvd video on my notebook computer but the system said
Windows Media Player cannot play the DVD as the compatible DVD decoder is
not installed. I have learnt that Windows Media Player is capable of
playing back DVD video. Can someone advise what I have to do in order to
use this feature.

Thanks,

Scott

 

[Detlev Dreyer]

I tried to play a dvd video on my notebook computer but the system said
Windows Media Player cannot play the DVD as the compatible DVD decoder
is not installed. I have learnt that Windows Media Player is capable
of playing back DVD video.

That's correct, however, you need a third-party codec (DirectShow Filter).

Can someone advise what I have to do in order to use this feature.

"DVD Playback in Windows XP"
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/expert/bridgman02april15.mspx

"Troubleshooting DVD playback in Windows Media Player for Windows XP"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306318/en-us

"Supported software MPEG-2 DVD decoders in Windows Media Player for
Windows XP and Windows Vista"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306331/en-us

"Plug-ins for Windows Media Player"
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/plugins.aspx

Note that many pre-installed systems have DVD software installed incl.
the codecs working for the Media Player as well. When purchasing a new
DVD drive, such software comes along as bundle in most cases.

 

[Scott]

Detlev,

Many thanks for your clarification. I was impressive that Windows Media
Player is capable of playing back DVD video and obviously is incorrect. It
was due to other DVD player software has been installed so Windows Media
Player can play DVD.

Scott

 

[Detlev Dreyer]

Detlev,

Many thanks for your clarification.

You're most welcome.

I was impressive that Windows Media Player is capable of playing back
DVD video and obviously is incorrect.

Yes, because WinXP does not have the required codecs (decoder) by default.

It was due to other DVD player software has been installed so Windows
Media Player can play DVD.

Correct. The Windows Media Player takes advantage of the DVD codecs being
installed by that third-party DVD software.