How to Reformat an IPod

By eHow Electronics Editor

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If your iPod has become damaged or you need it to work with a different operating system, consider reformatting it. The process is quick and relatively simple. Best of all, it restores your iPod to its original factory settings, which should fix any minor glitches you've been experiencing with it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1
Connect your iPod to your computer and sync it with iTunes.
Step2
Open the iPod management screen by clicking its icon on the left side of the iTunes window.
Step3
Click on the tab labeled "Summary."
Step4
Look for the button labeled "Restore" beneath the "Check for Update" button. Once you've found it, click on it.
Step5
Click on "Yes" when iTunes asks you if you're sure you want to restore the iPod.
Step6
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by iTunes for restoring your iPod.
Step7
Finalize the restoration by choosing the sync settings and naming your iPod like you did when it was brand new.
Step8
Reload your media to your reformatted iPod by syncing it with iTunes.

Tips & Warnings

  • Although Apple doesn't recommend it, you can use an iPod formatted for Windows on a Mac. This unfortunately doesn't work the other way around, since Macs use the HFS Plus file system, which Windows can't recognize.
  • Do not reformat your iPod until you've backed its contents up to another hard drive.
  • Don't disconnect the iPod from your computer until the reformatting is complete.

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eHow Article: How to Reformat an IPod

eHow Electronics Editor

eHow Electronics Editor

Category: Electronics

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