Hi all
can anyone suggest the easiest and prferibly free way to rip DVDs and put them onto my Ipad

you can use Foxreal DVD ripper, it supplys special presets for iPad to make the operation much easier, just 3 steps, you will finish the process. below is a simple guide

Step 1. After the installation, run it and add your DVD files, DVD discs, DVD iso or ifo image files are all ok.
Step 2. Choose the iPad profile you want in "iPad" category
Step 3. Start the convertsion.

you may try it!!!