iPod Special Report: Quirkiness when synchronizing with high-power USB 1.1 ports

Several readers have noted odd behavior -- also experienced in-house -- when attempting to charge second generation iPod minis via high-power USB 1.x ports as found on a number of discontinued Macintosh models. [Second generation iPod minis only include a USB 2.0 (backwards compatible with USB 1.x) cable and no FireWire cable or AC adapter]

For instance, a number of users have reported that although they are able to charge their iPod minis and synchronize music under normal circumstances over the USB 1.x port. However, when the iPod mini's battery is completely drained, it may take several minutes after connection to the USB 1.x port before the unit responds or provides any type of visual display.

In many of these cases, users assume their iPod minis are dead and initiate service calls to Apple.

If you are in this situation, try keeping your iPod mini connected to the USB 1.x port for several minutes or hours and check for eventual response.

• When songs won't play
• Warning about Windows DRM and the iPod
• Using Apple's Disk Utility, other disk tools to solve iPod directory/permissions problems
• USB 2.0 synchronization/data transfer problems
• Audio dropouts, pauses
• Revitalizing a frozen/unresponsive iPod
• Sudden, Unexpected Resets
• Repair difficult, replacement often cheaper: Cracked LCD screens and more
• Quirkiness when synchronizing with high-power USB 1.1 ports
• Mac freezes when going to sleep with iPod connected
• iTunes-purchased tracks won't transfer to iPod
• iTunes crash on iPod connection; solutions
• iSight interference
• Falling Asleep (appearing off) suddenly
• iPod-stored tracks cannot use some iTunes features
• Updater software issues
• Shuffle USB connectivity issues
• Remote Control problems
• iPod not showing up in iTunes
• Batteries: Charging, maintaining capacity, maximizing life; more
• Preferences not sticking
• Extracting files from an iPod to a Mac
• Distorted/static sound
• Dealing with Smart Playlists
• AppleCare for iPods
• Complaints about Apple earbud quality; alternatives
• Data loss -- Music disappears from iPod

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