[sw-l] Videos or DVDs...which do you prefer?

[Trevor Jenkins]

On Fri, 18 Mar 2005, Valerie Sutton <sutton at signwriting.org> wrote:

> I am curious...How many classrooms are equipped with video equipment
> and/or DVDs?

In my classroom situations (both as support worker and student) it's about
50:50. More video equipment of all types in those contexts where sign
language training is being conducted than in others.

> ...video in PAL format, or DVDs?

Differences extend to DVD. For purely commercial reasons DVDs have
country/area specific encryption on them. It isn't very strong encryption.
Can be circumvented in software for computer-based playback, or by
"chipping" of dedicated DVD players, which usually means cutting a single
wire inside the case. Most DVD players are being advertised here as
"mutli-region" --- that is they come pre-chipped and users can play DVDs
originating in any region. Most modern VCRs available in Britain can play
PAL and NTSC tapes.

> ...do you have DVD equipment?...computers?...video players?...

Integrated TV/DVD combos ... yes. Computers ... yes. Video players ... yes
but recently one of our major home electronic chains announced ceasation
of all VCR sales.

Regards, Trevor

<>< Re: deemed!