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The first step you need to take in order to convert your DVD collection into files viewable on your BlackBerry is to find a decent software package to help you handle all that tricky video compression that is required.

There are many software packages out there that will help you complete the DVD conversion; some are free, and others carry a cost. For the purpose of this write up, we have decided to focus on one particular product, named Media Studio for BlackBerry 1.3, produced by Makayama and available for a free trial download.

The overall process of converting a DVD into a file compatible with your BlackBerry, while having variances in specific steps, will be similar across the majority of software packages available. Therefore, even if you do not opt to go with the software profiled here, the process discussed in this guide will hopefully be of use to you going forward.

One of the reasons we have decided to profile the Makayama Media Studio for BlackBerry is that it allows for potential customers to download a trial version for evaluation before purchase.

NOTE: It is important to keep in mind that not every model of BlackBerry will be able to display video. Before you decide to download/purchase this software, please ensure that your particular model of BlackBerry appears in this list: Blackberry Pearl (8100/8120/8130), Curve (8300/8310/8320), 8800, 8820 and 8830.

Now that you are positive that you have the necessary equipment to watch your newly converted DVD’s, let’s download the trial version and have some fun.

Downloading the Makayama Media Studio for BlackBerry trial version

Head over to the following URL to download the dvd converting software from Makayama. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the button labeled “Free Trial”.

When the short download is complete (8.58 MB), navigate to the location you have saved the downloaded setup file and extract using WinRar.

Once you have extracted the executable files from the archive, simply double click on the .exe file to install the software on your PC.

Agree to any License Agreements presented and choose the directory you would like to install your new DVD to BlackBerry conversion software. When the installation has completed, click the “Finish” button. You will note that an icon has now been placed on your desktop for easy access to the Media Studio for BlackBerry software. (When using the free demo version, you will be limited to converting files of 3 minutes or less.)

Converting your first video

The first step in converting your DVD/video into a BlackBerry ready file using the Makayama software is to select your model of Blackberry .

Once you have indicated to the software which model of BlackBerry you are going to be watching your video on, it is time to decide which type of content you are looking to convert. You are given the option of converting either DVD or “Video Content”. For the purposes of this guide I will be converting an outtake from a previous BBGeeks video (less than three minutes in length to comply with the trial software constraints).

Selecting your content

Once you have indicated which type of file you will be converting, click the open button in the lower right corner of your screen. You will notice that a new Windows Explorer window pops up. Navigate through Explorer to locate the video file you would like to convert.

On the screen of the demo BlackBerry you will see your selected video clip playing in real time. Pay attention to this play through to ensure that you have selected the correct video clip.

Applying the right settings

There are a couple of options you are presented with right away that will have an impact on the sizing of your compressed video. Click on the button labeled “Advanced” to reveal these options:

• Normal [4:3] ratio
• Widescreen [16:9] ratio
• Cinemascope

When selecting the Normal option click the button labeled “Next”. You will be asked to decide whether you would like your video compression to be optimized to retain better sound quality or alternately, better video quality.

When you choose either Widescreen or Cinemascope, you will also be asked whether or not you would like the content to be zoomed in, thus eliminating the black bars that usually accompany video footage of this type. Again, once you have chosen your options, click Next and decide on the type of compression you would like to use.

Once you have applied all of your settings, click the red button named “Action”

NOTE: Before you attempt to convert a video clip and send it to your BlackBerry, you must ensure that your BlackBerry is configured with Mass Storage Mode enabled. If you do not do this, the Makayama software will not be able to find your handset and the conversion will fail.

To enable Mass Storage Mode on your BlackBerry, select Options — Advanced options — Media Card — set Mass Storage to “on” or “prompt”. Once you have completed this step choose to save these settings.

Once the Action button has been clicked you will notice that the Makayama software initiates the conversion process. There is a status bar at the bottom of the window which indicates current progress.

Transferring your new video file to your BlackBerry

When your conversion has been completed, a new window will appear which is titled “You can now select files”. In this window you will see four file panes. The top two will display your local PC file structure (left pane) and your BlackBerry file structure (right pane). The bottom two panes will display any video files residing on your PC (left pane) or BlackBerry (right pane) which are compatible with the BlackBerry (3gp format).

In order to move a file from your PC onto your BlackBerry, simply click on the desired file in the bottom left pane and then click the “Move to BlackBerry” button(orange). Depending on the size of the file being transferred, this process may take a few minutes.

Once the transfer is complete you will be prompted to convert another file if you wish. To do so, repeat the above process. If you are finished with your conversions for the day, close the program and unplug your BlackBerry from its USB cable.

Your newly converted video is now accessible from your MicroSD card in the Media section of your BlackBerry.

Additional video resource:

This article discusses in depth the process of converting your home video or DVD content into a format which is viewable on your BlackBerry. If you are more in the mood for watching television shows on your BlackBerry there is another great resource located at Videos4BlackBerry. Check out our complete review of website and all the great videos for BlackBerry they have to offer.

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