Old 40GB iPod charging / mounting issues

[monkeydodesign]

hi,

I've been scouring the internet for solutions but can't find anyone with the same problem.

I have an old iPod 40GB that has served me very well for a few years. That was until recently when suddenly my iPod would no longer mount on the desktop or iTunes using the firewire connection - all it would do would charge the iPod. I tried the newer USB 2 connector, which let my iPod mount. However, the iPod won't charge with the USB2. This is a problem because of the age of my iPod - the battery lasts about 10mins on it's own.

I have tried all Apple's suggested methods of reactivating Firewire ports, but I know they work because other devices work fine in them. I have alos finally completely wiped and restored my ipod to no avail. During the time that this happened, I have upgraded to 10.4 and also been getting the latest iPod updaters etc.

I'm now stuck in a position where I can get about 100 songs at a time on to my iPod before it shuts down, iTunes crashes and I have to start all over again. I'm not yet ready to admit defeat and splash the cash on a new one.

Can anybody help me either get my firewire working, or get the USB2 to charge my ipod, so I can leave this living hell I find myself in...

Many, many thanks to anyone who can!

[voldenuit]

Make sure you use a known good Firewire cable.

The problems you experience may also be directly related to the failing battery.

If you can handle the exchange yourself, there are some pretty cheap sources for replacement batteries around.

[monkeydodesign]

Tried the FIrewire on a friends newer iPod a little while ago and it worked perfectly. This was on a different, newer mac.

Just ordered a battery - we'll see if that does it...

Cheers!

[Caius]

Sounds like the HD might be a tad flaky. If you're taking it apart to put a new battery in it, disconnect the HD and put it somewhere where there isn't a battery/magnet near it.

Mine had died (HD just clicked at me) I did this and its worked fine ever since (until the day I knocked it to the floor from my window sill (2nd storey -> gravel path) and it smashed the screen. Still works though!)

Taking the HD out and leaving it aside from everything for an hour or two (think I left mine overnight) solved an issue my mothers 20GB iPod had with the HD crashing iTunes after 1000 songs or so (much like yours sounds.)

[monkeydodesign]

Thanks - I'll try that when the battery arrives.

I have discovered a temporary work-around, in case anyone else has this problem. I need my iPod for a party tomorrow, so I just wanted to get my party playlist from itunes.

I found the best way was to change my set-up from manual updating to auto updating certain playlists, and just selecting the ones with under 100 songs. This appears to have stopped the iPod crashing, and leaves all transferred songs on the iPod.

So I now have all the tunes I want, and can play the iPod through the stereo, powered by the firewire plug I have. Not ideal, but at least people will dance.

I'll let you know how the battery / hard drive surgery goes...