How to Restore a Fifth Generation iPod

iPods are built to last, but most people encounter problems with their iPod from time to time. If your iPod simply will not respond to anything you try to fix it, it may be time to restore the iPod back to the factory default settings.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Download or install iTunes if you do not already have it on your computer. It's essential you have iTunes---you'll need it to complete the restore process.

2. Plug your iPod 5G into the computer using the USB cable. You will now see the iPod appear within iTunes.

3. Click on the "iPod" icon. You'll see information about your iPod 5G. Click "Restore." Click "Next" and "OK" when prompted by iTunes. A progress bar will now appear on screen. Note the restore option will delete all music, videos, playlists and other data you have on your iPod, so back it up if any of it is important to you.

4. Remove the iPod from the computer when the restore and re-sync process has completed. Press the "Center" button on the iPod. The iPod 5G should now boot up and work correctly. If you weren't able to restore the iPod, or the iPod was not recognized by iTunes, proceed to Step 5.

5. Unplug the iPod from the computer. Toggle the hold button on top of the iPod to "on" and then back to "off." Then hold the "Center" and "Menu" buttons down for 10 seconds. Next, hold the "Center" and "Play" button down. The iPod will go into disk mode.

6. Plug the iPod back into the computer and run iTunes. Follow Steps 3 and 4 to do this. The restore for the iPod 5G should complete successfully.

Tips & Warnings

• Restart the iPod before restoring it. Most iPods do not require restoration if they have simply frozen up. Before restoring the iPod to the factory settings, restart it by holding the "Center" and "Menu" buttons down for 10 seconds (or until the screen goes blank). The iPod should reboot.
• Don't disconnect before the restoration is complete. The iPod 5G restore can take from minutes to hours, depending on the speed of your computer and the number of files on your iPod. If you unplug the iPod before it is finished restoring, you may cause permanent data damage to the iPod.

[daviddoten]

on 8/11/2009 heres a free ebook to help you fix all your ipods, plus 20 tips and tricks for your ipod touch...

http://ipodtipstrickshacksrepairs.blogspot.com/

Peace,
David