How to Use an iPod as a Portable Hard Drive

All iPods are capable of being portable file storage units. With 60 Gigabyte iPods currently on the market, the consumer world has to take their storage capabilities seriously. Unlike other portable media players, iPods are capable of storing a variety of file formats. However, to access different file formats, iTunes, or a similar application, is needed to make the files readable and compliant with your iPod.

Instructions

1. Acquire iTunes. iTunes can be acquired through Apple's Web site, as well a number of iPod partnering Web sites. iTunes is the media library application that is designed to be compatible with your iPod, so it is the best application for the job.

2. Connect your iPod to your computer. The cord needed for this step depends largely on the generation of iPod you own. Earlier models utilized a special FireWire cord, while later generations have incorporated USB and more widely compatible connection formats.

3. Open iTunes and locate the source list. In this list find and click the button for iPod Options.

4. Enable disk use. On the iPod Options screen, choose to enable disk use on your iPod by checking the box next to the phrase "Enable Disk Use." When this is checked, hit "OK."

5. Add files and folders to your iPod. Once your iPod's disk use potential has been enabled, you can close iTunes and access that an iPod icon has now appeared on your desktop, giving you access to the iPod's storage space directly.

6. Add files to iTunes. Now that you have an iPod icon on your desktop, you can simply click on the file that you wish to write to your iPod and drag it in. Or, if you prefer, you can cut and paste files into your iPod's storage.

Tips & Warnings

• Buying an iPod for storage space is a little different than buying it purely for music storage and playback. Shop around and find the most hard drive for your money.

• Choose connectivity options that are easily compatible with many different devices. If you have a choice between FireWire and USB, go with USB. USB is much more compatible with any form of PC, laptop, Pocket PC and handheld device.

• Make sure that you pay close attention for file storage formats. Some formats are only compatible with Macs, while others are designed to work only with PCs.