Cyberlink users complaining of HD playback problems
by Donald Melanson 
posted Feb 8th 2007 at 2:32PM
Cyberlink's recently released PowerDVD Ultra software seemed to be a cure-all solution for enjoying high-definition movies on a PC, offering support for both Blu-ray and HD DVD, including Microsoft's low-cost Xbox 360 HD DVD drive. As Cyberlink's support forums show, however, not everybody's been rewarded for their patience (and hundred bucks), with a number of reports cropping up of playback problems with both high-def formats on systems that Cyberlink's own system adviser says meet the necessary requirements. The main problem appears to occur with those using an HDMI or DVI-to-HDMI connection between their video card and display device, with the video reportedly only playing for a few seconds before throwing up an "Error 0103" message stating that the player couldn't be initialized. While there's reports of the problem dating back to shortly after the software's release in late December, there's so far been no fix for the issue and no word from Cyberlink on when one might be coming. Some of the affected users don't seem to be in the mood for waiting, however, with a couple even going so far as to file complaints with the Better Business Bureau, though its yet to be seen what will come from that.[Thanks, Jeff]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Masterson @ Feb 8th 2007 7:13PM
I too am a user having problems with stupid Cyberlink PowerDVD. I pay $100 bucks for program, and it no work! What kind of shiite is that? Get off your asshole and fix this program, Cyberlink!
Mark @ Feb 9th 2007 3:01PM
Two words: "Tilt bits!"
Crappy DRM....
Andrew Blake @ May 4th 2007 9:34AM
I have no problems using HDMI with xbox dvd drive and Power DVD ultra.
However, it will not work unless you have a HDCP enabled video card. This is a specific requirement when using HDMI with Power DVD even if the content material is not copyright protected.
You can view using the VGA connection but your output will be limited to around 576 lines instead of true 1080, hence no HDCP required as it is not HD resolution.
Your solution is to buy a suitable graphics card - I use a Leadtek 7900GS, but there are Nvidia and ATI alternatives - specificaly ask for HDCP ENABLED, it should be marked on the packaging or check the web if your not sure.
Nicolas @ Jul 12th 2007 5:31PM
Last week I purchased a nvidia GeForce 8800 GTS 640MB, mainly to be used in my Media Center. Quite a big chunk of money to spend on a GPU. Well the problem is that my video card recognizes my a/v receiver as a HDCP Repeater and Power DVD doesnt like that at all. Also, the video card doesnt really support HDMI connections and it is connected with a DVI to HDMI adapter. Long story short. I cant watc Blu-ray or HD DVD off my computer for now. Whole bunch of money not well spent....