I have just got an Ipod Shuffle and have had one headache getting it working.

Initially I loaded the Ipod software and iTunes only to find that, when I plugged in the Shuffle, it would not recognise the Ipod although it appears in Windows Explorer. So I try running the Ipod Updater but it then freezes.

So I uninstall all the software and reload it. This time during the installation I plug the SHuffle in when I get to the part when it asks me to do so. I then get a message telling me the Shuffle needs to be formatted. So I click on the "ok" button and away it begins, what I imagine, is formatting the Shuffle. Twi hours later it is still "formatting" although there is no indication that hasn't just gone into a loop or frozen.

Anyway I then reinstalled the software agin, this time not connecting the Ipod until the installation was complete but still no luck, the Ipod can't be seen in iTunes nd the Updater freezes when I run it.

I have printed out most of the troubleshooting pages on the Apple website, tried loading the latest iTunes (Version 6) but still no luck.

I suspect the think does need to be formatted but how long dow this process take - and why does the Updater freeze.

I have an Ipod Mini which I use with another computer without any hassles.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Cheers,

jvdv

Uninstall Windows XP and give it another go.

I had this same problem a few weeks back, trying to get a Shuffle working on a friend's XP machine.

What you need to do is not insert the Shuffle at all during the software setup - even though it suggests you do!

Continue with the installation until iTunes is installed on your Windows machine. Only when iTunes is installed and up and running, then plug in your Shuffle. iTunes should recognise your Shuffle and you'll then be home and hosed.

You may also need to update the Shuffle's firmware via the iPod Software Updater. In fact, I'd recommend doing that first.

Let me know how you go. using the above method, I got my friend's Shuffle up and running. Personally, given the hoo-ha I had to go through, I think the provided installation disks suck.

You meant that in jest, right?

Thanks fr the information.

I tried plugging the Shuffle in after iTunes was running but it still doesn't recognise it - it appears in Windows Explorer as a "removable drive" (and is recognised as an Ipod) but not in iTunes. (Under "preferences" in the iTunes drop down menu it says "No Ipod connected").

I tried again running the Updater program but it too can't see the Shuffle.

All very frustrating but thinks for the feedback.

Do you know someone with a Mac? I'd be surprised if, on plugging in the Shuffle to a Mac that it still wouldn't be recognised. You could then use the Mac iPod Software Updater. And then see if iTunes on your XP machine will recognise the Shuffle.

If you don't know anyone with a Mac, perhaps take it down to a Mac store, plug it into one of the demo machines and update it from there??

EDIT: or what about uninstalling the software again, download and install an XP version of iTunes direct from the internet, and then see if the Shuffle will be picked up by iTunes?

I don't know anyone with a Mac. As far as the software goes I have reinstalled it 4 or 5 times. The Shuffle came with iTunes v5 and as a last resort I downloaded (30+MB) and installed iTunes v6 but it made no difference.

I will see where the nearest Apple strore is and maybe give them a try.

Cheers,

Hi all,

As an end of year reward, our staff were supplied a shuffle each.
Of the 14 issued, 9 did not work.

It was not an installation error etc. iPod was simply a dud. Poor stats 9 of 14 :cry: .

Despite the PC confirming songs were on the 'removable disk', itunes did not show the songs.

When trying to play, the green light stayed on however no music.

Mine was one of the good ones fortunately and when they work, they are terrific. The program is easy and straig forward to install.

If anyone has a possible fix, please let us know as we still have a couple in the office being used as paperweights.

Cheers