It's easy - most people use the free PC application Handbrake. It has a special setting for the iPad so it's very easy to use, though it can be a little slow. There are several threads on this Forum about Handbrake so take a look at Member's experiences and comments.
Good to hear from you. You’ll find a whole bunch of iPad enthusiasts in this Forum who are only too willing to help other iPad owners and to hear of their experiences. Don’t be afraid to post any questions you may have or use the ‘Search’ button near the top of the Forum web page. I usually find I discover one new interesting and useful piece of information about my iPad every day - and often not even what I was looking for!!
Hope to hear from you soon with your thoughts about the iPad.
Have fun and enjoy your iPad
If you don’t already have it you can download a copy of the iPad manual for free.
Apple - Support - Manuals
Please read the rules too!!
http://www.ipadforums.net/forum-rules-help-info/2119-forum-rules-everybody-please-read.html
Tim
Scotland