My iPod Won't Charge or Connect

USB hubs don't always have enough power to charge your iPod.

Not all iPods have the same battery life or capacity. No matter which iPod you own, you will eventually need to charge it either through your computer or with a power adapter. You will also need to connect your iPod to the computer periodically to load music, books and videos and to manage your playlists. Occasionally a problem will arise that prevents your iPod from charging or being recognized by your computer. The problems may be caused by a poor connection to the computer, or your iPod may be frozen and need to be reset.

Instructions

Connecting Your iPod to Your Computer to Charge

1. Connect the iPod to a high-powered USB port and connect it directly to your computer rather than using a keyboard port.

2. Keep your computer turned on and prevent it from going into sleep mode. Your iPod will not charge while your computer is inactive.

3. Allow your iPod to charge for a half hour before expecting it to be recognized by your computer. Your computer cannot interact with your iPod when the battery is drained. If possible, charge it using a power adapter when the battery is drained.

4. Use the 2.0 USB cord that came with your iPod rather than another USB cord to connect your iPod to your computer for charging or managing the iPod.

5. Restart your computer. Sometimes simply restarting your computer will fix the problem.

Reset an iPod With a Click Wheel

1. Locate the hold switch. Toggle it on and off.

2. Press the center select button and the menu button at the same time. The menu button is located above the center select button on the click wheel.

3. Hold the select button and menu button in for about six to 10 seconds until you see the Apple logo. Your iPod has now been reset.

Reset an iPod Without a Click Wheel

1. Locate the hold switch. Toggle it on and off.

2. Press the Play/Pause button and the Menu button at the same time.

3. Hold the Play/Pause button and Menu button in until you see the Apple logo. Your iPod is now reset.

Tips & Warnings

• Download the latest version of iTunes to have the best results when managing your iPod.

References

• Apple Support: How to Reset Your iPod.
• Apple Support: iPod's Battery Doesn't Charge