How to Move Your iPod to a New PC

Transferring an iPod's data to a new computer is easy.

You bought a new PC, but something is missing--your iPod's songs, videos and applications. Since the iPod's data is stored on and shared with iTunes, connecting (syncing) it to a new computer will erase the iPod's data. However, you can configure your iPod (except for the iPod touch) to store data without erasing existing information. Configuring the iPod is the easiest method of transferring all existing data; all other methods require additional software or hardware.

Instructions

1. Connect your iPod to iTunes using your old computer. To keep your iPod data from being erased, you must first configure your iPod's settings on your old PC.

2. Click the "Summary" tab on the iTunes window and select the "Manually manage music" box. The "Manually manage music" feature allows you to manually update your iPod; without this feature, your iPod data will be erased upon syncing to a new computer.

3. Click "OK" and then "Apply" when the message "Disabling automatic update requires manually unmounting the iPod before each disconnect" appears. This message serves as a reminder that a manual update will take longer.

4. Consolidate your music under the "Advance" tab under "Preferences." Click "File," then "Library," then "Organize Library" and finally "Consolidate Files." Consolidating files allows your iTunes music to be stored in one location on your computer.

5. Quit iTunes and locate your iTunes folder. From "My Computer" on your PC, locate your iTunes folder and copy it to your iPod. This step may take a while, so be sure you have enough room on your iPod to transfer all of your data.

6. Disconnect the iPod once the transfer is complete. On your new computer, connect your iPod and transfer the iTunes folder onto your desktop. Drag your iTunes folder into iTunes and wait until all the data is copied.

Tips & Warnings

• To transfer your iPod Touch data, you must manually transfer your iTunes data onto an external hard drive and then to your new computer.

• Do not purchase any software claiming to transfer your music for you; iTunes offers data transfer for free.

• These steps work only on iTunes 9 or later.

References

• Apple Support: How to Use Your iPod to Move Your Music to a New Computer