Is It Necessary to Split VOB Files?

Video object files are seen with the .vob file extension. The files are native to DVDs and can appear as one or multiple files when viewed on a computer. A VOB file contains multiple other file types and can be directly accessed only by software that can break down the components of a DVD.

1. VOB

   • The VOB file format is known as a container file. While the .vob extension is visible when the file is viewed on a computer, it is a diverse file that serves multiple purposes. A VOB file can contain video, audio, subtitles and menu information for a DVD. It offers a streamlined approach for the organization of DVD content, allowing you to more quickly dissect the files stored on each disc.

   Splitting

   • If you extract a VOB file from a DVD, it may be split into multiple files. This is typically an option given to you by digital media software when a VOB file is from a DVD that has multiple chapters. VOB files can be extracted to represent each chapter, or converted into a single file, FileExtensionGuru.com states. Although it's unnecessary to do so, splitting a VOB file gives you the advantage of smaller files if you are sending them to others, as well as isolating chapters if you want to retain navigation menus when creating a backup DVD.

   Use

   • Extracting a VOB file from a DVD movie, as well as the additional components stored along with it, allows you to create a backup of the original disc. Many DVD-burning programs can accept these files and create a disc without requiring the original DVD. This also allows you to share the files more easily with friends via the Internet or other electronic storage medium by not requiring a physical copy.

   Additional Information

   • Burning a DVD movie requires the IFO and BUP files from the original disc, in addition to the VOB files. These additional files store information regarding DVD navigation and other nuances. Distributing DVD movie files that are protected by copyright is against the law. Only extract files to create a backup of a DVD movie that you personally own, or to share files or create copies of a personal movie or disc that isn't protected by copyright.