yup, i've had this several times when using recode to make nero digital files from a dvd (never when just shrinking a dvd).

i initially thought it was due to recode using 100% cpu for 15mins+ and the cpu overheating, but then the machine doesn't crash, just recode, so that's not it.

i've found the way to [sometimes] get around it is to use it for short periods - like on a episodic dvd, just recode one title at a time, not a whole dvd.

the annoying thing is that it usually crashes well into the process, not at the beginning, so wastes your time too.