*You have the option of using another internet outlet as I am typing this post Via FREE broadband at My local University.

Most people don't, and lets face it there are times when you wouldn't want to go miles away just to watch something.

*The OP's DAD, for whatever reason, has Chosen to remain huddled in the crumbling caves of the past

• Now thats just unfair.

*actually there are several UK VHS units that will convert on the fly and did'nt require you to have a dual format TV

• He's right, plus there plenlty of pass through convertors out there. The ones for imported games consoles can work just as well as ones meant for TV.

*I'm surprised that a US DVD wouldn't work on a Japanese player....

• I'm not, like MagnusGreel says it's about regions. Or more precisely the film industry wanting control over what we can watch. It's the same online as well, many sites like the BBC or Hulu have systems in place to stop content bein watched fron overseas.

*Depending on the format a DVD is recorded in, it may or may not play on other players. And some :)

• As part of the pc repair side of my day job converting data from one format/media types to another type is a regular question and issue.

Anything from extracting text from a scratched disc, 1000's .PDF's because someone lost the master password, to converting 8mm video to DVD, different types of .RAW format and theres always a little something to catch you out. Like badly synced audio, having the right codecs or cables. Knowing how to bypass a DRM system for legitmate reasons etc etc.

Pinky - you left the lens cap of your mind on again.