ipod and PC blues

http://www.apple.com/support/itunes/windows/musicstore.html

Check here for the most up-to-date software (should be version 4.2)

You could get a Mac. :-)
But seriously, some notes:
1) I'm running iTunes 4 on my PC (Win2k) and it's fine. I've been using it to rip CDs and have done lots (I've got a 40GB iPod).
2) Beware of trying to use your iPod with two computers - each one will overwrite the songs. I had planned to use both my Mac and my PC to manage my iPod, but it don't seem to work since there isn't an "import songs from your iPod" option.
3) I put a Firewire card on my PC rather than buying a USB cable. (I got the card on ebay a while back for around £15.)

Paul Rowlands

If iTunes is crashing you could use something like the excellent ephpod available from ipodding.com. I used this before itunes became available to good effect.

It ain't as good or as pretty as iTunes but it will let you use your iPod without sacrificing your computer! There are a few alternatives to even ephpod but ephpod is the best! That said - keep working on itunes because it will be worth it!

Andrew

Andrew

there are 10 types of people in this world... those who can read binary, and those who can't...

prowla
Try downloading IpodRip which will allow you to upload from ipod to computer. you get ten or so free uses before you have to pay for it. Costs about ten pounds.
I used it to restore my library of songs when my hard disc failed.
Seems to work pretty well and if you e-mail them with a problem they seem to take note and reply or they up grade the software shortly after.
John

John
Thanks - I'll have a look at it.
Paul

Paul Rowlands

I assume you are running XP or similar ?

I had exactly the same problem. Solved by downloading the latest version and upgrading RAM to 512MB. I wouldn't bother getting Firewire if you already have USB 2.

I used ipod rip when I needed to get the tunes back on the mac, however there was 30gigs of it and the poor harddrive got very hot. I stuck it on a bag of frozen peas in the end.

Scary

I upgraded my iPod firmware a few days ago. One of the enhancements was to the battery level indicator. Now when my machine has been charging all night it only shows half charged when I undock it. Haven't tried it enough to be sure yet but it seems to stick on wherever the revolving indicator is when you remove it from the base. Anyone else seen this one ?

Anselm,

I'm using iTunes v4.1.1 on Win2k and it's more stable than the two earlier versions. Not tried 4.2 yet......

Stephen.