Turn on your Sansa player by pressing the "Power" button for 3 seconds and then releasing.
Step2
Turn on your PC and wait for it to logon before proceeding.
Step3
Using the data transfer cable that came with your Sansa player, firmly connect it to the player. Using the other end, plug it into your computer approx. 1/3rd of the way. This will connect the power only.
Step4
Once your PC says that it failed to load the portable device, plug the USB completely into the computer. You will be able to use it while it is charging.
Tips & Warnings
If this doesn't work the first time, try again, plugging the USB in slightly less than the first time.
Enthusiast 
