Rip DVD for iPod (or other digital media device)

I have found that with little kids it is convenient to have videos in digital format. This is essential for various reasons.
First, no matter how hard I try to prevent it, my 4 year old gets a hold of a DVD every so often and it ends up scratched beyond usability. I now show many of my kids favorite shows and movies directly from my computer or from my iPod connected to my TV.
Second, when you are on a long road trip it is nice having movies to show your kids, or watch yourself. Unfortunately a hot car parked in the summer sun is not a great place to store DVD's, and DVD's are just one more thing to have in an already full car.
In order to convert you videos you have to have a few tools. The first is DVDFab. There is a free version that will rip the DVD for you. Second use Handbrake to convert it to a format that works with your media devices. Remember that the better the quality the more hard drive storage space you will need. Another option instead of Handbrake is to use DVDShrink and lower the quality of the movie so you can burn your own copy to a normal single layer DVD. Use the copy and store your originals somewhere safe (I have found that the top of a closet, or very high shelf has worked so far but I did catch my 4 year old climbing up shelves the other day).