Try http://www.iskysoft.net/
It has presets for the IPad and will not only rip DVDs, but convert video files. I stumbled across it when looking for something to convert the .MTS files from my Sony HD camcorder into .MOV files for e-mailing to family who are all Mac users. The quality is stunning, I haves ripped over 30 titles to date and have about 5 of them on my IPad 3G 64gb right now.
Try http://www.iskysoft.net/
It has presets for the IPad and will not only rip DVDs, but convert video files. I stumbled across it when looking for something to convert the .MTS files from my Sony HD camcorder into .MOV files for e-mailing to family who are all Mac users. The quality is stunning, I haves ripped over 30 titles to date and have about 5 of them on my IPad 3G 64gb right now.
Cheers
Yes I know the OP asked for free, I've been reading for over 45 years now (sorry I couldn't resist).
As too the second question, I am using the built In IPad setting.
I tried Handbrake and was satisfied with the video quality, so I tried the paid program. I was simply was offering a suggestion, the OP can try both a choose the program that fulfills his need.
Off my soapbox...
Cheers,
If you want to stick with free ...
Handbrake
Handbrake
a hundred times Handbrake