Can I get my iPod and Windows speaking to each other again?
In many cases, the disconnect has to do with either an iPod firmware update or digital cobwebs within your system. Generally speaking, Mac users don't run into this problem--not too surprising, given that the iPod was manufactured specifically for the Mac platform (iTunes for Windows is a shadow of the Mac version). We've heard dozens of instances of an iPod not being recognized by Windows computers even after it had been recognized in the past. Don't fret; there are a number of possible reasons and fixes.
Have you tried these things?
1. Have you updated your iPod firmware lately? We've heard of many cases where the latest firmware--especially with older iPod models--will create a disconnect between the iPod and its host PC. In general, the best thing to do is to try a soft reset of your iPod and try reconnecting. You can also try a factory reset (as seen in
Wednesday's worry) using the iPod Updater, although your iPod probably won't be recognized by the utility. If soft resetting doesn't work, try uninstalling iTunes and all your other iPod-related software and reinstalling them from scratch.
2. Have you updated to
Windows XP SP2? New service packs and updates could be the culprit; we've heard many users notice that their iPod has lost connectivity after their Windows update. SP2 has been known to interfere with FireWire and other host controllers and hardware. Again, try uninstalling all iPod-related software and reinstalling.
This is iTunes 4.7 on my Windows XP box. My iPod is connected via USB 2.0 but it doesn't always show up in iTunes.
That is scary.
3. Have you introduced any new hardware to your system? It's typical for us to load tons of software and hardware drivers on our PCs here at CNET, and in at least two cases, our iPods wouldn't show up either as a drive letter or in iTunes. The more crap you have on your computer, the more your chances of driver- or hardware-related interference increase. Try ridding your system of any unnecessary hardware or software, uninstalling iPod-related software, and reinstalling. Even though your FireWire or USB 2.0 card (third party or system based) may have worked before, it may not have the power requirements to gel with your iPod if you have other devices connected. Check Apple for its
hardware recommendations.
Tune in next month for another Tech Nightmare!
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