Advanced ipod troubleshooting

Just like any other device, you can troubleshoot problems with your iPod to avoid the hassle of going through a lengthy warranty or return process. By searching the Internet and Apple's web site, you may find a solution the problem your device is currently experiencing. Proceed with caution, not all fixes will work for your iPod, and you may cause more harm than good if you do something wrong during a troubleshoot session.

Just like your computer, an Apple iPod hard drive can run into problems of its own. Everything from bumping it against the wall, dropping it or leaving it in extreme hot or cold temperatures can cause the hard drive to fail. There are a few tips and tricks to try and get it to work again.

First, you can check the iPod for disc errors. You want to reset your iPod by holding in the center button and menu button for seven to ten seconds. Once it flashes back to the Apple logo, it will take a few seconds to load back up. During the load, the iPod automatically checks for any disc errors that might be present since last use. If you get a sad face picture on the display, you have some sort of error preventing your hard disk from loading properly.

While Apple suggest you do not use third party software to restore or defrag your iPod, various programs have been used to fix an iPod with disc errors. If you feel comfortable using one, it might just help, but if you do not want to risk it, the easiest way to go about solving this type of problem is retoring the iPod back to factory settings. If you go to iTunes and plug your iPod in, your main screen will have two options: Update or retore. Update allows you to update the firmware and other settings from Apple's web site wheres restore will reformat the hard drive disk in the iPod for a clean use.You will want to click the restore button to do just that. This will erase all information, music, photos and videos from your iPod and restore it to its original settings.

How do I change the battery?

Apple suggests that iPod users do not change the battery inside the device. In some cases, the battery is fused to the motherboard and opening the device can ruin the entire iPod. In other cases, the battery is just glued to the back casing, and you can easily replace or swap out batteries for a better one.

Many third party companies have created and designed new iPod batteries that last much longer than the lithium ion batteries that are used in the units now. In many cases, it is also cheaper than replacing the battery directly through Apple or buying a new iPod all together. Proceed with caution; replacing your iPod's battery can damage the unit and you may find yourself buying a new one if you do not know what you are doing when you crack open the device.

The first thing you want to do is purchase a new battery. Once it arrives, you will want to take apart the iPod casing. This can be the hardest part of installation. Depending on the iPod's generation, you may or may not be able to pry it open easily. Many iPod owners have suggested something like a guitar pick to open up the case; you do not want to use anything sharp, in case you slip, you do not want to damage the motherboard inside. Many battery installation kits come with the tools you need to open, install and put back together your unit. You want to work you away around the entire casing until it comes off.

Once you crack open the case, you want to lay the iPod on a non-scratch surface. Separate the two iPod parts, you will be able to point out the battery quickly from here. It is connected to the motherboard, you want to unplug the battery gently and lay it to the side. Plug in the new battery gently, and make sure it is connected securely. Lay the battery back down the same way you found the old one, and you will begin to put the cover back on. Lay the cover flat, and press down gently on all sides. Pick up the iPod and make sure the cover is on securely before continuing.

Finally, you will want to plug your iPod into a wall charger, and let it sit for four to six hours. Once it has charged, you will notice the difference in charge within a few days. If you encounter any problems, it may be a sign of a faulty installation, and you will want to contact the retailer where you purchased the replacement battery for further help or troubleshooting.

Apple does offer a warranty for battery replacement outside their one year limited warranty. This came about after several class action lawsuits that alleged Apple trumped up the capabilities of its batteries without actually testing it with real world music listeners. You can learn more at Apple's web site.

What do I do if my computer doesn't recognize the iPod?

If your computer does not recognize your iPod, you want to try the following steps: Make sure the hold switch is not on, make sure the battery is charged at least half-way and try resetting the unit to see if the Apple logo appears. If those do not work, let the iPod battery drain, recharge it, and see if that works. Again, if it does not, you will want to update the firmware by downloading the update from Apple's web site.

If these fixes do not work, it is possible a conflict may be occurring on your computer between the iPod and other USB or FireWire devices. Try a new or different USB or FireWire cable, first, and if that does not work, disconnect all USB and FireWire devices, including your keyboard and mouse, then, plug in the iPod and see if it works. If it does, one of your other devices is now conflicting with the unit, and you will want to go about trying to fix that conflict so you can potentially use both at the same time. Last but not least, try connecting the iPod to another computer and seeing if it is recognized.

What do I do if troubleshooting fails?

If you can not fix your iPod, you may want to contact Apple Support or visit their web site for the closest Apple store in your vicinity. Local consumer electronics stores may also have help for you, and you can always try and find a local store that repairs iPods if it falls outside your warranty. If you do not feel comfortable troubleshooting on your own, your best bet is to take it to somebody who has experience with the units so you do not cause more harm than good during your attempts to fix your iPod.