what I do first thing when I buy DVD driver is update its formware to remove the restricyion. same goes for other hadwares like consoles. I just don't like region lockout business... stuff those evil behind the region lockout thing I'd say :smt023
All the dvd drives I have had in a computer have had the 5-change lockout. Easily got around in software, if not with firmware. Using a DC for a media player (constantly on) doesn't do the motor/laser aparatus much good, but given the price they are these days I guess it doesn't matter. Could never be arsed to re-encode anything for it either way.