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iPod first aid
by Stephen Elliot
09.01.07 |
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Let’s start with the basics: your iPod is working fine, but it doesn’t show up on your computer’s desktop (assuming that you’ve enabled disc use in iTunes, naturally). The first thing you should do is try to reset it. Either press Play/Pause and Menu (older iPods) or Menu and Select (all iPods with a click wheel) for around eight seconds until the Apple logo reappears. If you don’t have any luck with that, then ‘force mount’ your iPod by going into Disc mode. When the Apple logo appears on your iPod, press down and hold Play/Pause and Select and that should do it. Also, if you’re connecting to a Mac using USB and your system software is older than 10.3.4, then your iPod won’t appear. Either use a Firewire cable or update your system software. One last resort is to delete iTunes from your computer and install the latest versions of iTunes and your iPod’s system software. If all that doesn’t work, then why not post a message on our forums explaining exactly what the problem is and see if there’s anyone who can help.
DON'T PANIC!
If your iPod doesn’t even turn on, then don’t panic (well, not yet anyway) as it’s not necessarily fatal. Before you do anything else, check that the Hold switch at the top of the iPod hasn’t been left on, as this obviously disables all the keys. It’s easy to forget you did it and it’s also common for it to slip across when your iPod’s bouncing around in your pocket. If that’s not the cause of your iPod woes, then it could be the battery’s charge. As the iPod’s battery drains even when the machine isn’t switched on (albeit very slowly), it’s very possible that it might be completely flat. Plug it in and don’t be tempted to use it until it’s fully recharged.
If your iPod is displaying an unusual symbol (a folder icon with an exclamation mark) (image 1) then it’s not too serious, but it is recommended that you update your iPod’s system software as soon as possible (see below). But if you notice an icon of a CD and a magnifying glass, then this indicates that the iPod may have a problem with the hard drive and the in-built diagnostic software is running a scan. Make sure that the iPod is being charged (either through your computer or through a mains adaptor) and leave it to do its work. When it’s finished, it will show one of four icons. If it’s a disc with an exclamation mark, then the scan failed and it’ll attempt it again the next time you turn your iPod on. If you get a disc with a tick symbol, then no problems were found. If it’s a disc with an arrow on it, then the software found problems but was unable to correct them – in that case, you should update the iPod’s system software. Last, but most definitely not least, if the check comes back with a sad iPod icon, then the software is unable to repair the fault and it needs to be repaired.
If you need to repair your iPod and it’s still under warranty, contact either Apple or your dealer and they’ll advise you on how to return it to them. If the warranty has expired though, then you’ll need to find a suitable company to repair it for you. Thankfully, there are plenty of reputable companies who’ll take a look at your iPod for you and the repairs may well be a lot less expensive than you’d think. In the UK, we recommend contacting UK iPod Repairs (image 2), while if you’re in the US, iPod ResQ (image 3) should be able to help.
Finally, it’s always worth having the latest version of the iPod’s firmware installed, as this will ensure that your iPod is fully compatible with the latest iTunes update, as well as any addition features that have been released – such as the Nike + iPod Sports Kit. Load up iTunes, connect your iPod and, when the iPod’s Summary screen appears, it’ll tell you if the system software is up to date or if you need to download the latest version.
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1. If your iPod’s fault lies with the battery then check out our FAQs for more advice, as replacing the iPod’s battery is easier and cheaper than you might think. |
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