iPod 101: Fill 'er Up

Now that you've got music in your iTunes library, you're ready to fill up your iPod. You can have iTunes automatically update your iPod with songs, audiobooks, podcasts, and games in your library whenever you connect your iPod (we'll talk more about podcasts in "Plug into Podcasts"). Or you can decide to take full control over which audio files and playlists you manually transfer to your iPod. Here's how to add songs using both methods.

Now that you've got tunes in iTunes, it's time to share your collection with your iPod.

• Have iTunes Automatically Fill Up Any iPod with a Display
• Have iTunes Automatically Fill Up iPod shuffle
• Manually Add Songs, Playlists, Podcasts, and Audiobooks to Your iPod

Have iTunes Automatically Fill Your iPod

If you haven't already set your iPod to automatically sync with your iTunes library in the iPod Setup Assistant, follow the steps below to have iTunes fill your entire iPod with your music, podcasts, and audiobooks whenever you connect it. If you did set iTunes to automatically update songs and playlists, just connect your iPod to your computer to start filling it up!

Fill Up Any iPod with a Display

Show Me How

You can set iTunes to automatically update songs, playlists, audiobooks, podcasts, and games on your iPod any time you connect it.

1. Connect your iPod to your computer. iTunes should open by default (if you set iPod Settings to not open iTunes when you connect your iPod, open iTunes manually).
2. Choose your iPod under DEVICES.
3. From the iPod Settings that appears, choose the Summary Tab.
4. If you want your iTunes library and your iPod to mirror the same music and video content, make sure “Manually manage music and videos” is not chosen, then do the following:

   

   • To sync your music, choose the Music tab, choose “Sync music”, then choose the “All songs and playlists” radio button to add everything from your iTunes collection to your iPod. Or, choose the “Selected playlists” radio button and then choose the playlists you want to include from the list below. If you want to include music videos on your iPod, choose “Include music videos”. If you want to include the album artwork, choose “Display album art work on your iPod”.
   • To sync your movies, choose the Movies tab, choose “Sync movies”, then choose the “All Movies” radio button to automatically sync all your movies to your iPod. Or, choose the “… unwatched movies” radio button and choose “all”, 1, 3, 5, or “10 most recent” from the drop-down menu, to sync just those movies to your iPod. If you want complete control, choose then “Selected movies” radio button and then choose the movies you want to sync from the list below.
   • To sync your TV Shows¹, choose the TV Shows tab, then choose “Sync TV Shows” to and choose “all” or the 1, 3 5, or “10 most recent” or “10 most recent unwatched” to automatically sync those TV shows to your iPod. For complete control, choose the “Selected TV Shows” radio button and then choose the TV Shows you want to sync from the list below.
5. If you have podcasts that you'd like to sync too, click the Podcasts tab in iPod Settings, then choose “All podcasts” to automatically sync all your iTunes podcasts to your iPod. Or, choose “Sync … episodes of” and choose “all” or the 1, 3, 5, or “10 most recent” or “1, 3, 5, or “10 most recent unwatched” to add just those podcasts to your iPod. To choose exactly which podcasts to sync, choose the “Selected Podcasts” radio button and then choose each podcast you want to sync from the list below.
6. If you want to sync your Photos too, check out Put Pics on my Pod.
7. If you want to sync your Contacts too, check out Get Productive.
8. And of course you’ll want your games, so check out Give me Games.
9. When finished, click Apply and iTunes will start filling up your iPod with your chosen audio files. Please be aware that this can take a while, depending on how large your iTunes library is.
10. When you're ready to start playing with your iPod, disconnect it from your computer by clicking the small eject button to the right of your iPod icon in the Source pane. When the icon disappears from iTunes and your iPod says that it's OK to be disconnected, you can safely disconnect your iPod.

Fill Up iPod shuffle

Show Me How

With iPod shuffle, you can set iTunes to Autofill the player with random songs from the library or a particular playlist.

1. Connect iPod shuffle to your computer. iTunes should open by default (if you set iTunes preferences to not open iTunes when you connect your iPod shuffle, open iTunes manually).
2. Choose your iPod shuffle in the Source pane.
3. From the iPod Settings that appears, choose the Contents tab.
4. Below the song list pane, you'll see several options that allow you to control what songs to automatically transfer to your iPod shuffle. From the Autofill from pop-up menu (drop-down in Windows), choose Music if you want to copy random songs from your entire library, or choose any playlist listed to copy tunes from just that playlist.
5. If you already have some songs on your iPod shuffle but want to replace them, choose the "Replace all items when Autofilling" checkbox. Otherwise, deselect this checkbox to keep your current songs intact—iTunes will then add songs to your existing collection.
6. If you choose the "Choose items randomly" checkbox, iTunes will choose songs at random from your chosen source. If you deselect this checkbox, iTunes will fill your iPod shuffle with songs from your chosen source in the order in which they appear until either your iPod shuffle is full or all songs are copied.
7. If you want iTunes to lean towards copying your higher rated songs, choose the "Choose higher rated items more often" checkbox. If you're not a faithful song rater, don't choose this checkbox.
8. Click Autofill to make iTunes start filling your iPod shuffle with songs. Please be aware that this can take a while, depending on how large your iTunes library or playlist is. If you want to add podcasts or audiobooks, follow the next two steps.
9. To add particular podcasts to iPod shuffle, choose Podcasts in the Source pane. Then either choose and drag a podcast title to the iPod shuffle icon in the Source pane to copy all of the downloaded episodes, or click the disclosure triangle next to any podcast title and drag any podcast listing to the iPod shuffle icon to add individual episodes.
10. To add particular audiobooks to iPod shuffle, choose Library in the Source pane, choose an audiobook in the song list pane, and drag it to the iPod shuffle icon in the Source pane.
11. When you're ready to start playing with iPod shuffle, disconnect it from your computer by clicking the small eject button to the right of the iPod shuffle icon in the Source pane. When the icon disappears from iTunes, you can safely unplug iPod shuffle.

Manually Add Songs, Playlists, Podcasts, and Audiobooks to Your iPod

If you want total control over everything that goes on your iPod, iPod nano, iPod mini, or iPod shuffle, you can add songs, playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks by simply dragging the content you want onto your iPod icon in the iTunes Source pane.

Disable Auto Update First (iPods with a Display Only)

If you have an iPod with a display and want manual control of your music (this doesn't apply to iPod shuffle users), first make sure that iTunes isn't set to automatically update songs whenever you connect your iPod. If you need to change this status, do this first:

1. Connect your iPod to your computer and open iTunes if it does not open automatically
2. Choose your iPod under DEVICES in the Source pane.
3. In the resulting iPod Settings, click the Summary tab.
4. Choose the "Manually manage songs and playlists" radio button. This will unselect all sync options in the Music, Movies, and TV Shows tabs.
5. If you want to manage Podcasts, Photos, Contacts, and Games manually as well, click the Podcasts, Photos, Contacts, and Games tabs and turn off each of their sync options.
6. Click Apply.

Adding Songs and More

Adding songs, playlists, audiobooks, and podcasts (shown here) to your iPod is a simple drag-and-drop affair.

To add songs, playlists, podcasts, audiobooks, and games to any iPod model, just follow these instructions:

1. Connect your iPod to your computer. If iTunes doesn't automatically open after you connect it, open iTunes.
2. To add songs or audiobooks from your library, choose Library in the Source pane, choose one or more items you want (to choose multiple songs and audiobooks, Command-click items on a Mac or Control-click items in Windows), then drag them onto your iPod icon in the Source pane.
3. To add a playlist (which will also copy the songs it contains if they're not already on your iPod), choose the playlist in the Source pane and drag it onto your iPod icon in the Source pane.
4. To add podcasts, choose Podcasts in the Source pane. Then either choose and drag a podcast title to your iPod icon in the Source pane to copy all of the downloaded episodes, or click the disclosure triangle next to any podcast title and drag any podcast listing to add individual episodes.
5. When you're ready to start playing with your iPod, disconnect it from your computer by clicking the small eject button to the right of your iPod icon in the Source pane. When the icon disappears from iTunes, you can safely disconnect your iPod.

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304708

iPod displays a sad iPod icon

iPod displays a sad iPod icon

and

• iPod is not recognized in iTunes
• iPod is not recognized in My Computer (Windows) or iPod not recognized in Finder (Mac OS X)

Products affected

• Any iPod with an LCD display

Solution

In most cases, the sad iPod icon indicates a hardware issue. If you are able to force iPod into Disk Mode, then it may not be a hardware issue, and you should try to restore your iPod with the latest software.

If you cannot force your iPod into disk mode and restore it, then your iPod is in need of service. Set up an iPod Service Request or make a reservation at the Genius Bar before visiting your local Apple Retail Store. To make a reservation go to www.apple.com/retail, choose an Apple Store location, then click on the "Make a reservation" link.

Additional information

For an easy to follow QuickTime movie, view the Troubleshooting & Extras section of the iPod Tutorials at
www.apple.com/support/ipod/tutorial.

Related documents

61003: "iPod displays a folder icon with an exclamation point"

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61771

iPod missing in "My Computer" or in iTunes for Windows

Note: This article is for Windows users. If you have a Mac, we have a separate article for you if your iPod doesn't appear in iTunes or on the Mac desktop.

Can't see your iPod in iTunes or Windows Explorer? Remember these five basic suggestions when you run into a problem with your iPod. If one of the following doesn’t help, read on for solutions to specific problems. If Windows sees the iPod but iTunes 7 does not, then see this article first.

Tip: Check Device Manager first (right-click on My Computer, choose Manage, and then select Device Manager). If no devices appear in the Windows Device Manager, go here.

Before starting, make sure your iPod is fully charged and then toggle the Hold switch on and off.
Reset, Retry, Restart, Reinstall , Restore
Click here to go through the 5 R's of iPod troubleshooting, which most of the time will solve your problem. If you're still experiencing the issue after going through each of the steps, then continue on for more suggestions.
Still can't see your iPod?
Several things could keep iPod from appearing in iTunes or Windows Explorer. The most likely causes are listed below—you'll find information for both USB and FireWire (IEEE 1394) iPod connections. Check each one starting from the top of the list to see if that is what's keeping iPod from appearing.

Arrow iPod appears in Windows Explorer but not in iTunes 7 or later (Click for more)

If your iPod shows up in My Computer, but iTunes doesn't recognize it, there may be a software conflict, or iPod Service didn't load. You may see an "iPod Service Error" alert or a "Please Reinstall iTunes" message.

If you see either of these messages, try the solutions in this article to resolve the issue.

Arrow Laptop or portable connecting via USB? (Click for more)

See iPod not recognized when connected to Windows laptop over USB for more information.

Arrow Your computer doesn't meet iPod system requirements (Click for more)

Make sure that your computer meets the system requirements to use iPod for Windows.

Arrow Your iPod displays an exclamation point folder or sad iPod icon, or doesn't appear in iTunes or My Computer (Click for more)

If your iPod displays a folder with an exclamation point icon or a sad (unhappy) iPod icon on its screen, or if your iPod doesn't appear in iTunes or My Computer, follow these instructions to resolve the issue.

Arrow Your iPod isn't formatted for Windows (Click for more)

iPod for Windows Software only recognizes iPod for Windows. You cannot use iPod for Macintosh with a Windows PC. To see which platform your iPod is formatted for, follow these instructions.

Arrow Your iPod isn't connected to a high-power USB port (Click for more)

If you're connecting an iPod, iPod mini, or iPod shuffle to your Windows computer, make sure that you're connecting it to a high-power USB 2.0 port on your computer (not a low-power one such as the USB port on your keyboard or bus-powered USB hub).

Typically, USB 2.0 high-power ports are located directly on your computer. Try connecting your iPod to another USB port on the computer (or to a self-powered USB 2.0 hub that's connected to a high-power USB 2.0 port on your computer) if the computer still doesn't recognize your iPod. Alternatively, if your computer has a FireWire connection, try using that instead.

If you're connecting an iPod, iPod mini, or iPod shuffle to a Windows laptop computer through USB, connect the laptop to a power outlet before connecting your iPod.

Arrow You're not using a WHQL-certified IEEE 1394 card (Click for more)

If you have a FireWire (IEEE 1394) card installed in your computer and are using it to connect your iPod, make sure that the card is Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) certified. If it isn't, your iPod may not be recognized, or you may not be able to send music to the iPod.

If you're not sure about your card's WHQL certification, check the inbox material that came with your FireWire card or contact the card's manufacturer. You can view a list of WHQL-certified cards on the Windows Hardware Compatibility List website. To view this:

1. Go to the Windows Hardware Compatibility List website.
2. Enter All Products in the "Search for" field.
3. From the Product Categories pop-up menu, choose 1394 Controller.
4. Click the Search Now button.

Note: Windows XP information is not listed on the initial search screen, but is listed when you click on an individual card.

You can also check the list of recommended FireWire and USB cards that have been tested by Apple with iPod and Windows XP. (Apple sells FireWire cards that are compatible with iPod at the Apple Store.)

To rule out an issue with your FireWire card, try connecting a different FireWire device to the card to see if your computer recognizes it.

Arrow Your connections aren't secure (Click for more)

Make sure that there is nothing in or blocking your computer's USB (or FireWire) port, and that the cable connections to your iPod and computer are secure.

Note: If you're using an iPod shuffle (Second Generation), make sure the iPod is inserted securely in the iPod shuffle Dock.

Arrow Your iPod cable is faulty (Click for more)

1. Make sure that you are using the cable that came with your iPod. Some third-party cables may not work properly with iPod.
2. Make sure that nothing is in or blocking your computer's USB or FireWire port.
3. Check the connections to make sure that the cable is completely plugged in.
4. Try another known-good FireWire or USB through Dock Connector cable if available.

If swapping out your old cable for another resolves the issue, then your original cable should be replaced.

Arrow Your iPod isn't charged or getting power (Click for more)

Your iPod must have enough of a charge for your computer to recognize it. Connect your iPod to its power adapter or to a high-power port on your computer to charge your iPod if the battery is depleted. If you have an iPod nano, click here for more information. If your iPod is connected through FireWire but isn't getting power from the FireWire bus, your computer may not recognize it.

Arrow Your computer's port may be faulty (Click for more)

If another FireWire or USB port is available on your computer, try connecting your iPod to it. If you are using FireWire and have a USB cable to connect to the iPod, try using USB instead. If you are using USB and have a FireWire port and cable to connect to the iPod, try using FireWire instead.

If your computer recognizes your iPod after trying a different port, the original port could be faulty.

Note: iPod will not automatically wake up if you connect it to a 4-pin FireWire port. You must press the Select button (the wheel's center button) on the iPod to wake it from sleep.

Arrow Windows confuses iPod with network drive (Click for more)

If the drive letter after iPod ("E" in most cases) is mapped to a network drive, both Windows Explorer and iTunes may exhibit strange behavior in relation to the iPod (including preventing iPod from appearing. See "Windows confuses iPod with network drive and may keep iPod from mounting or songs may seem to disappear" for more information.

Arrow There's a conflict in the FireWire chain (Click for more)

Your computer may not recognize your iPod if there's a device conflict in the FireWire chain. To see if this is the case:

1. Disconnect all devices from your computer's FireWire ports.
2. Connect your iPod to your computer's FireWire port.

If your computer recognizes your iPod, you should troubleshoot for FireWire device conflicts.

Arrow Your computer needs to be restarted (Click for more)

Sometimes simply restarting your computer can resolve issues.

Arrow Your FireWire card isn't recognized by Windows (Click for more)

Make sure that Windows recognizes your FireWire card. Follow these steps to find out if Windows sees your card.

Arrow Third-party software may be causing conflicts (Click for more)

Some third-party software (such as security software) may prevent your computer from recognizing your iPod. Try adjusting the settings of such software, or temporarily disabling it, to see if that resolves the issue.

Arrow Your iPod hard disk's format is damaged or was altered (Click for more)

If you reformatted the hard disk on your iPod, or if something has damaged or altered the disk's format, iTunes or My Computer may not recognize iPod. To resolve this issue, you may need to restore iPod.

Warning: The restore process will delete all of your songs and files on the iPod. This process cannot be undone. Always make a backup of your important data before restoring your iPod.

Arrow iPod Software needs to be installed or reinstalled (Click for more)

Download and install the latest version of iTunes.

Arrow There may be an issue with your computer (Click for more)

If another computer is available, verify that the same issues happen with the other computer. If the other computer recognizes your iPod, you may want to troubleshoot for issues with your original computer.

Arrow Your iPod needs service (Click for more)

If after following these steps your computer still doesn't recognize iPod, see the iPod Service website to arrange for service.

Important: Mention of third-party websites and products is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of information or products found at third-party websites. Apple provides this only as a convenience to our users. Apple has not tested the information found on these sites and makes no representations regarding its accuracy or reliability. There are risks inherent in the use of any information or products found on the Internet, and Apple assumes no responsibility in this regard. Please understand that a third-party site is independent from Apple and that Apple has no control over the content on that website.


http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61711

iPod shows up in Windows but not in iTunes

This document is for Windows. If you have a similar symptom but have a Mac, click here.

There are several possible solutions to an issue where you may see your iPod in My Computer, but not in the iTunes Source pane. Start at the top and work your way through the steps until your iPod works with your computer.

Important: If you do not see iPod in My Computer, go here for help.
Install the latest version of iTunes
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download

If you run into trouble installing iTunes, go here.
Arrow Restart the iPod Service (Click for more)

1. Quit iTunes.
2. Right click on My Computer/Computer and click Manage. If Windows requires your permission to continue, click Continue.
3. Click the plus symbol to the left of Services and Applications.
4. Select Services listed under Services and Applications.
5.

6. Double click iPod Service in the right hand panel.
7. Click the Stop button under the General tab and leave the iPod Service Properties window open.
8. Connect your iPod and wait until it is visible in My Computer/Computer.
9. Click the Start button in the iPod Service Properties window.
10. Open iTunes.

Arrow Remove iTunes (Click for more)

Note: Songs you purchased from the iTunes Store or imported from CDs are saved in your My Music/Music folder by default and are not deleted by removing iTunes

1. Quit iTunes.
2. On the Start menu, click Control Panel.
3. Windows XP and Windows 2000: In Control Panel, open Add or Remove Programs.
4. Windows Vista: In Control Panel, click Uninstall a program. Alternately, in Classic View of Control Panel, click Programs and Features. Select iTunes from the list of currently installed programs, then click Remove or Uninstall.
5. In Windows XP and Windows 2000, when asked if you would like to remove iTunes, select Yes.
6. In Windows Vista, if your permission is needed to continue, click Continue.
7. After uninstalling iTunes, do not restart if you are prompted to.
8. In Add or Remove Programs or Programs and Features, remove any iPod Updater applications that are listed in the same fashion as iTunes was removed.
9. Restart your computer.
10. After the computer restarts, open Local Disk C: in My Computer/Computer or whichever disk programs are installed on.
11. Open the Program Files folder.
12. Right-click the iTunes folder and select Delete and choose Yes when asked to confirm the deletion. Note: This folder may have already been deleted if iTunes was successfully removed in steps 1-8.
13. Right click the iPod folder and select Delete and choose Yes when asked to confirm the deletion.
14. Right-click on the Recycle Bin and on the shortcut menu, click Empty Recycle Bin.
15. Restart your computer.
16. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Empty your Temp directory and restart (Click for more)

1. On the Start menu, click My Computer (or double-click My Computer on the Desktop).
2. In My Computer, open Local Disk C:.
3. Open Documents and Settings.
4. Double-click the folder that bears your username.
5. If you see a Local Settings folder, skip to step 9. If you don't see a Local Settings folder, proceed to the next step.
6. On the Tools menu, click Folder Options.
7. Select the "Show hidden files and folders" button.

8. Click OK.
9. Double-click Local Settings.
10. Right-click on the Temp folder and on the shortcut menu, click Delete.
11. In the confirmation dialog that appears, click Yes.
12. If you are unable to delete the Temp folder, close all programs, especially those in the Notification area (system tray) of the Windows Task bar shown below and repeat step 10.

13. Restart your computer.
14. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Clean up iTunes installer files on the computer (Click for more)

You can download the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility from Microsoft, which will clean up any leftover installer files that may be causing issues with your current installation. To do this:

1. Click here first, and read the important information about the software.
2. Click the "Download the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility package now" link on that page to download a file titled msicuu2.exe.
3. Open the msicuu2.exe file and follow the prompts to install it.
4. On the Start menu, point to All Programs and then click Windows Install Cleanup; the Windows Installer Clean Up Utility window appears, listing software that is currently installed on your computer.
5. Select iTunes from the list and click Remove.
6. Click OK in the confirmation dialog that appears.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 if you have multiple iTunes entries listed.
8. Select QuickTime from the list and click Remove.
9. Click OK in the confirmation dialog that appears.
10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 if you have multiple QuickTime entries listed.
11. Click Exit.
12. Restart the computer.
13. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Disable conflicting System Services and Startup Items (Click for more)

Installed background processes can sometimes prevent the iPod Service from running. You might be able to resolve this by disabling some items with the System Configuration Utility in Windows XP. Find out how here.

If you have tried all the steps in this document, and the linked documents, and iPod is still not being recognized correctly by iTunes or the iPod Updater, then there is likely some other system issue on your computer. This may require you to repair or reinstall Windows. If you need assistance with this, contact whomever supports Windows on your computer. In most cases, this is the maker of the computer.
Arrow Deleting corrupted or incorrect registry keys (Click for more)

Damaged registry keys may prevent Windows from recognizing a variety of USB storage devices including iPod. To troubleshoot this issue, refer to the Microsoft knowledge base article below:

* A computer that is running Windows XP cannot detect a USB thumb drive, an Apple iPod, or an external hard disk drive

Related document
93499: "Windows confuses iPod with network drive or hard drive and may keep iPod from mounting or songs may seem to disappear"

Important: Mention of third-party websites and products is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of information or products found at third-party websites. Apple provides this only as a convenience to our users. Apple has not tested the information found on these sites and makes no representations regarding its accuracy or reliability. There are risks inherent in the use of any information or products found on the Internet, and Apple assumes no responsibility in this regard. Please understand that a third-party site is independent from Apple and that Apple has no control over the content on that website. Please contact the vendor for additional information.


http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93716

iPod shows up in Windows but not in iTunes

This document is for Windows. If you have a similar symptom but have a Mac, click here.

There are several possible solutions to an issue where you may see your iPod in My Computer, but not in the iTunes Source pane. Start at the top and work your way through the steps until your iPod works with your computer.

Important: If you do not see iPod in My Computer, go here for help.
Install the latest version of iTunes
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download

If you run into trouble installing iTunes, go here.
Arrow Restart the iPod Service (Click for more)

1. Quit iTunes.
2. Right click on My Computer/Computer and click Manage. If Windows requires your permission to continue, click Continue.
3. Click the plus symbol to the left of Services and Applications.
4. Select Services listed under Services and Applications.
5.

6. Double click iPod Service in the right hand panel.
7. Click the Stop button under the General tab and leave the iPod Service Properties window open.
8. Connect your iPod and wait until it is visible in My Computer/Computer.
9. Click the Start button in the iPod Service Properties window.
10. Open iTunes.

Arrow Remove iTunes (Click for more)

Note: Songs you purchased from the iTunes Store or imported from CDs are saved in your My Music/Music folder by default and are not deleted by removing iTunes

1. Quit iTunes.
2. On the Start menu, click Control Panel.
3. Windows XP and Windows 2000: In Control Panel, open Add or Remove Programs.
4. Windows Vista: In Control Panel, click Uninstall a program. Alternately, in Classic View of Control Panel, click Programs and Features. Select iTunes from the list of currently installed programs, then click Remove or Uninstall.
5. In Windows XP and Windows 2000, when asked if you would like to remove iTunes, select Yes.
6. In Windows Vista, if your permission is needed to continue, click Continue.
7. After uninstalling iTunes, do not restart if you are prompted to.
8. In Add or Remove Programs or Programs and Features, remove any iPod Updater applications that are listed in the same fashion as iTunes was removed.
9. Restart your computer.
10. After the computer restarts, open Local Disk C: in My Computer/Computer or whichever disk programs are installed on.
11. Open the Program Files folder.
12. Right-click the iTunes folder and select Delete and choose Yes when asked to confirm the deletion. Note: This folder may have already been deleted if iTunes was successfully removed in steps 1-8.
13. Right click the iPod folder and select Delete and choose Yes when asked to confirm the deletion.
14. Right-click on the Recycle Bin and on the shortcut menu, click Empty Recycle Bin.
15. Restart your computer.
16. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Empty your Temp directory and restart (Click for more)

1. On the Start menu, click My Computer (or double-click My Computer on the Desktop).
2. In My Computer, open Local Disk C:.
3. Open Documents and Settings.
4. Double-click the folder that bears your username.
5. If you see a Local Settings folder, skip to step 9. If you don't see a Local Settings folder, proceed to the next step.
6. On the Tools menu, click Folder Options.
7. Select the "Show hidden files and folders" button.

8. Click OK.
9. Double-click Local Settings.
10. Right-click on the Temp folder and on the shortcut menu, click Delete.
11. In the confirmation dialog that appears, click Yes.
12. If you are unable to delete the Temp folder, close all programs, especially those in the Notification area (system tray) of the Windows Task bar shown below and repeat step 10.

13. Restart your computer.
14. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Clean up iTunes installer files on the computer (Click for more)

You can download the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility from Microsoft, which will clean up any leftover installer files that may be causing issues with your current installation. To do this:

1. Click here first, and read the important information about the software.
2. Click the "Download the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility package now" link on that page to download a file titled msicuu2.exe.
3. Open the msicuu2.exe file and follow the prompts to install it.
4. On the Start menu, point to All Programs and then click Windows Install Cleanup; the Windows Installer Clean Up Utility window appears, listing software that is currently installed on your computer.
5. Select iTunes from the list and click Remove.
6. Click OK in the confirmation dialog that appears.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 if you have multiple iTunes entries listed.
8. Select QuickTime from the list and click Remove.
9. Click OK in the confirmation dialog that appears.
10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 if you have multiple QuickTime entries listed.
11. Click Exit.
12. Restart the computer.
13. Install the latest version of iTunes from http://www.apple.com/itunes/download and connect your iPod.

Arrow Disable conflicting System Services and Startup Items (Click for more)

Installed background processes can sometimes prevent the iPod Service from running. You might be able to resolve this by disabling some items with the System Configuration Utility in Windows XP. Find out how here.

If you have tried all the steps in this document, and the linked documents, and iPod is still not being recognized correctly by iTunes or the iPod Updater, then there is likely some other system issue on your computer. This may require you to repair or reinstall Windows. If you need assistance with this, contact whomever supports Windows on your computer. In most cases, this is the maker of the computer.
Arrow Deleting corrupted or incorrect registry keys (Click for more)

Damaged registry keys may prevent Windows from recognizing a variety of USB storage devices including iPod. To troubleshoot this issue, refer to the Microsoft knowledge base article below:

* A computer that is running Windows XP cannot detect a USB thumb drive, an Apple iPod, or an external hard disk drive

Related document
93499: "Windows confuses iPod with network drive or hard drive and may keep iPod from mounting or songs may seem to disappear"

Important: Mention of third-party websites and products is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance or use of information or products found at third-party websites. Apple provides this only as a convenience to our users. Apple has not tested the information found on these sites and makes no representations regarding its accuracy or reliability. There are risks inherent in the use of any information or products found on the Internet, and Apple assumes no responsibility in this regard. Please understand that a third-party site is independent from Apple and that Apple has no control over the content on that website. Please contact the vendor for additional information.


http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93716

How to use your iPod to move your music to a new computer

Got a new computer and want to move your entire iTunes library? Starting with iTunes 7 there is a new backup feature that will archive your entire library to CD or DVD, including ratings and playcounts, which can be moved to another computer. If you are interested in moving your library using this method click, here.

If you do not have access to a CD or DVD burner then there is another option if you own an iPod. Because your iPod contains a high-capacity hard drive, you can use it to move all your music from your old computer to the new one.

Note: While you can use the Transfer Purchases from iPod option under the File menu to copy iTunes Store purchases from the iPod to another computer, you can't transfer songs from other sources from the iPod library to iTunes, so you'll need to follow the steps below to use iPod as a hard disk to transfer music files from one computer to another. This process will require the use of iTunes 7 on all computers. Any computers running iTunes 6 or earlier will need to be updated to follow these steps. Download the latest version of iTunes here. Once you have the files transferred, you'll need to authorize any iTunes Store content. If you won't be using your old computer, you'll want to deauthorize it.

Important: Windows operating systems don't recognize Mac OS-formatted disks (HFS or HFS Plus formats), so you can't use a Mac-formatted iPod to move your music to a Windows PC. See "iPod: How to determine iPod's hard disk format" if you're not sure what format your iPod is.

Switch the iPod to manual update and enable disk use

The first thing you need to do is make sure have configured your iPod to enable disk use. To do this:

1. Open iTunes on your old computer.
2. Connect your iPod to your old computer and wait for it to appear in iTunes.
3. Select your iPod in the Source pane under the Devices section to display your iPod preferences in the main library window.
4. Click the Summary tab in the main iTunes window.
5. Click the Manually manage music button. Changing from automatic updating to manual puts a check mark by Enable disk use. A message says

   "Disabling automatic update requires manually unmounting the iPod before each disconnect."

   

6. Click OK in the message window.
7. Click Apply in the iPod preferences section of the iTunes window.

Is all the music together?

To make the move as easy as possible, be sure your music is all in one place.

1. Open iTunes Preferences:
   Mac: From the iTunes menu, choose Preferences.
   Windows: From the Edit menu, choose Preferences.
2. Click Advanced and then click General.
3. Look to see if the checkbox for "Copy files to iTunes Music folder when adding to library" is selected. If it is, skip ahead to Is there enough room on the iPod. If it is not, continue to step 4.
   
4. Select the "Copy files to iTunes Music folder when adding to library" checkbox.
5. Click OK. Note: Clicking OK will cause iTunes to copy all of your music files to another location on your computer. You will need to manually remove the files from their previous locations if you are concerned about space. If your computer does not have enough hard-drive space this process will not work correctly. Please speak to your computer manufacturer or Microsoft for more information on how to obtain more space to perform this action.
6. From the Advanced menu, choose Consolidate Library. A window appears reading: "Consolidating your library will copy all of your music into the iTunes music folder. This cannot be undone."
7. Click Consolidate.

Is there enough room on the iPod?

iPod shares its hard disk space between the songs that iTunes puts on it and any files you've added when using its disk mode. To transfer music with your iPod, you need enough free space to hold a copy of all your music files in addition to any copies that may already have been placed by iTunes (this is because non-purchased songs placed on the iPod by iTunes cannot be copied off the iPod while in disk mode). To figure out how much space you have on your iPod:

1. Open iTunes on your old computer.
2. Click on Music in the Source pane. The size of your library appears at the bottom of the iTunes window:
3. 
4. Connect your iPod to your old computer and wait for it to appear in iTunes.
5. Click the iPod under the Devices section of the Source pane.
6. The amount of free space on the iPod appears near the bottom of the iTunes window:
7. 
8. If the amount of free space left on your iPod is larger than your library, skip to Copy iTunes folder to iPod.

Free up space on the iPod

If your library is larger than the amount of free space on your iPod, you'll need to free up some space on it. Here's how:

1. Click your iPod in the Source pane.
2. Click on the Music option listed under iPod in the Source pane. (If you do not see this option, click the gray arrow next to the iPod to reveal the iPod's contents)
3. Click any song that appears in the main part of the iTunes window (to the right).
4. From the Edit menu, choose Select All.
5. 
6. Important: The next step will delete all music from your iPod. If you have been using automatic update you don't need to worry, because all your music is also on your computer. If you have not been using automatic update, and your iPod has music on it from another source (other than your iTunes library), following the next step will delete that music.
7. Press Delete on the keyboard. If you see a message that says "Are you sure you want to remove the selected items from the list?", click Yes.

Copy iTunes folder to iPod

To copy all your music files (including the library file that holds all your playlists and other settings) to your iPod:

1. Quit iTunes.
2. Locate your iPod:
   Mac OS X: On the desktop
   Windows: In My Computer
3. Locate your iTunes folder:
   Mac OS X: /Users/username/Music
   Windows: \Documents and Settings\username\My Documents\My Music\
4. Drag the iTunes folder to the iPod. This can take a while if you have a lot of songs.

   

   From your old Mac to the iPod

   

   From your old Windows PC to the iPod
5. When the copy completes open iTunes.
6. Click on the iPod in the Source pane
7. Click the Eject button in the lower right corner of the iTunes window.
8. Disconnect the iPod from the computer when the "Do not disconnect" message no longer appears on the iPod screen.

Get iTunes ready on your new computer

To get iTunes ready to accept all your music on your new computer:

1. Download and install the latest version of iTunes.
2. Open iTunes on your new computer. If this is your first time to open iTunes on your new computer you will need to choose your options in the iTunes Setup Assistant.
3. Connect the iPod to your new computer.

Backup any music that's already on your new computer

Do you already have some music showing up in your Library in iTunes on the new computer? If so follow these steps to make sure this music gets saved (You can see how to add it back into iTunes in the Adding music on new computer back in section below). If not you can skip down to the Copy music to new computer section.

1. Open iTunes Preferences Mac OS X:
   From the iTunes menu, choose Preferences.
   Windows: On the Edit menu, click Preferences.
2. Click the Advanced tab.
3. Click the Reset button next to iTunes Music folder location.
4. Make sure the checkbox next to Copy files to Music folder when adding to library is checked.

   

5. Click OK.
6. From the Advanced menu, choose Consolidate Library. An alert message appears: "Consolidating your library will copy all of your music into the iTunes music folder. This cannot be undone."
7. Click Consolidate.
8. Quit iTunes.

Copy music to new computer

To copy all your music files (including the library file that holds all your playlists and other settings) to your new computer:

1. Locate your Music folder (Mac OS X) or your My Music folder (Windows) on your new computer:
   Mac OS X: /Users/username/Music
   Windows: \Documents and Settings\username\My Documents\My Music\
2. Drag the iTunes folder in this location out to the desktop.

   

   From the Music folder to the Desktop on your new Mac

   

   From the My Music folder to the Desktop on your new PC
3. Locate the iPod on the new computer:
   Mac OS X: On the desktop.
   Windows: In My Computer.
4. Double-click on the iPod to open it.
5. Drag the iTunes folder from the iPod to the Music folder (Mac OS X) or My Music Folder (Windows) on your new computer. This can take a while if you have a lot of songs.

   

   From the iPod to the Music folder on your new Mac

   

   From the iPod to the My Music folder on your new PC
6. Open iTunes.

There you go. All your music, playlists, and other information like play counts and ratings have all been moved from your old computer to your new one.

Add existing music on new computer back in

If you already had some music on your new computer, and you want to incorporate it into the music you just moved from your old computer:

1. From the File menu in iTunes, choose Add to Library (Mac OS X) or Add Folder to Library (Windows).
2. Navigate to the iTunes folder on your Desktop.
3. Click Choose (Mac OS X) or OK (Windows).

Note: Information like ratings and play count are not preserved for these songs.

Free up room on the iPod

To free up room on your iPod so iTunes can put all your music back on it:

1. Quit iTunes.
2. Drag the iTunes folder out of the iPod to the Trash (Mac OS X) or Recycle Bin (Windows).
   Mac OS X: From the File menu, choose Empty Trash.
   Windows: A Confirm Folder Delete window appears. Click Yes.

Switch the iPod back to automatic update

To set up your iPod to be updated with all your music from iTunes on your new computer:

1. Open iTunes.
2. Select your iPod in the Source pane and click the Music tab that is available on the right in the iPod Settings.
3. Click the “Sync music” option, and the “All songs and playlists” option. An alert message appears:

   "Are you sure you want to enable automatic updating? All existing songs and playlist on the iPod "ipod name" will be replaced with songs and playlists from the iTunes music library."

   Optional: Uncheck the Enable disk use button in the Summary tab if you don't want to use the iPod as a disk. If you leave this option checked you need to eject your iPod from iTunes before you disconnect the iPod from your computer.

4. Click Apply.

The iPod update begins. All your music is now on your new computer, and after the update completes it will be on your iPod again too.

How to reset iPod

Learn how to reset or restart iPod following a freeze. Tip: Check out this helpful movie too.

If you have an iPod shuffle, click here for reset steps.

Important: If your iPod is frozen or won't turn on, it may be because iPod is paused or the Hold switch is in the locked position. If so, a lock symbol appears on the screen. Slide the Hold switch to the unlocked position and check the screen.

If you are using your iPod as a hard drive (disk mode), it is normal for "do not disconnect" to remain on the screen until you are ready to eject the iPod in iTunes or from the Mac OS. To avoid having the iPod freeze learn how to eject and disconnect iPod from your computer.

If your iPod is frozen or won't turn on, the steps to reset it vary by model. You can easily tell which iPod model you have if you're not sure.

To reset an iPod with a Click Wheel, including:

• Fifth Generation iPod (also known as iPod with video)
• iPod nano (Second Generation)
• iPod nano
• iPod with color display (iPod photo)
• iPod (Click Wheel)
• iPod mini
• iPod mini (Second Generation)

1. Toggle the Hold switch on and off. (Slide it to Hold, then turn it off again.)
   
2. Press and hold the Menu and Center (Select) buttons simultaneously until the Apple logo appears, about 6 to 10 seconds. You may need to repeat this step.

Tip: If you are having difficulty resetting your iPod, set it on a flat surface. Make sure the finger pressing the Select button is not touching any part of the click wheel. Also make sure that you are pressing the Menu button toward the outside of the click wheel, and not near the center.

If the above steps did not work, try connecting iPod to a power adapter and plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet, or connect iPod to your computer. Make sure the computer is turned on and isn't set to go to sleep.

To reset iPod, iPod (scroll wheel), iPod (touch wheel), and iPod (dock connector)

1. Toggle the Hold switch on and off. (Slide it to Hold, then turn it off again.)
   
2. Press and hold the Play/Pause and Menu buttons simultaneously until the Apple/iPod logo appears, about 6 to 10 seconds. You may need to repeat this step.
   

If the above steps did not work, try connecting iPod to a power adapter and plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet, or connect iPod to your computer. Make sure the computer is turned on and isn't set to go to sleep.

If you are still unable to reset your iPod, use only one finger from one hand to press the Center (Select) button, and one finger from the other hand to press the Menu button.

When you reset iPod all your music and files are saved, but some customized settings may be lost. Date and time is preserved (unless the iPod reset itself because it had no power and then was reconnected to power). Other customized settings, such as Bookmarks, On-The-Go Playlists, Shuffle, Backlight timer, and so forth are preserved from the last time the hard drive turned on.

iPod not responding

If your iPod does not respond to these steps, see additional steps in the "iPod troubleshooting basics and service FAQ".

Additional Information

Apple releases new versions of the iPod Software Update application from time to time. These later versions may include new functions or improvements to existing features. Learn about updating iPod's software.

To return iPod to its original factory settings, use the iPod Software Updater utility to restore iPod.

Related documents

93492: iPod: How to Disconnect Safely
93936: iPod iconology or what does this picture on my iPod mean?
93318: iPod : Maximizing skip protection
60951: Using the iPod Hold switch to prolong battery life
61003: iPod shows a folder icon with exclamation point when you turn it on
93736: iPod mini shows a folder icon with exclamation point after disconnecting from a Windows PC
61771: iPod does not appear in iTunes or on the desktop, an exclamation point or sad iPod icon appears on screen
60950: iPod doesn't appear in iTunes or on my Mac desktop
61135: Disconnecting iPod from your computer

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