Creative Zen Disconnects Automatical

Hi, first time poster.
I've done a quick search and can't seem to find this exact problem, apologies if it has already been posted.
I received my Creative Zen 6gb the other day, and it kept disconnecting automatically from my PC. I have tried alternati've usb cables, and different PCs, as I saw some people already suggest, to no avail. The time it takes to disconnect seems to be very random, is it something to do with it being fully charged?
I hoooked it up to my Xbox 360 (via USB) to listen to it while playing, and the same disconnection problem happened. I haven'tdone anything to the players firmware yet, as I wasn't sure how to, and whether it would be neccessary.
Can anyone help?
thanks

Could be an intermittent fault in the connection between the USB cable and the Zen, or between the USB cable and the Xbox/PC, or the Zen's USB plug and its mainboard. First, try a new USB cable. If the problem goes away it was a duff cable. If the problem remains then there's a problem on the Zen end of things.

Similar Messages

Creative Zen 32 GB - disconnect when battery is f

Hello!
I have bought the Creative Zen 32 GB and after i connected it to my USB-Port and loaded fully the first time, it abort the connection to the PC every few minutes and provokes the Automatic Execution window ( like described in this thread: "Creative Zen provokes constant popups of Automatic Execution window").
I use Win XP with SP2? and tested USB Port on front and back.
After i searched a hole day in this forum and google, i didn't find anything specific aside from some ppl with the same problem. But no statement from creative or something helpfull... it is a general problem of the zen player or should i send it back for warrenty?!

nobody on this? forum the same problem?

Helpful hints for new Creative Zen MP3 2/4/8/16/32 GB (flash) Users On

Summary of helpful hints (from this forum and me) for new Creative Zen MP3 2/4/8/6/32 GB (flash) Users Only!
Rev..
Date: 4/28/2008
Author: ZenAndy
Creative terminology:
MP3 Player Recovery Tool - A program that resolves the majority of player problems quickly.
One click is all it takes to update your player to the latest available firmware, and to give your player a clean bill of health.
Link: http://www.creative.com/products/mp3...me.asp region=
Note: You can also go to "Creative" "Support" "downloads" choose your MP3 Player type to obtain the latest firmware and software releases.
Note: On your Zen you can look under "System" & "Information" and then compare the firmware download
releases OR you can have the "MP3 Player Recovery Tool" (above) do it for you automatically.
Note: Creative Zen 4/8/6 GB "MP3 Recovery Tool" DOES NOT stop on a firmware comparison match.
Note: All firmware releases/revisons for the 4/8/6 GB Zen also works (is the same as) for the 2 GB & 32 GB Zen.
Recovery Mode - If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it is recommended that you boot the player into its unique Recovery Mode, and then clean up, format or reload the firmware.
. The player is not detected in Creative MediaSource or Windows Media Player
2. The battery does not last as expected
3. Your computer stops responding during file transfers
4. There is a power outage during file transfers
5. There is an error about firmware
6. LCD displays a "Firmware Problem" message
7. Your player is not responding.
8. The player is performing erratically.
Getting Started
. Load your Creative Zen software from CD FIRST and BEFORE plugging the Zen MP3 player, using the short cable, into the PC USB port to charge it.
2. Try charging the Zen MP3 player directly from the USB port on the PC. If not, make sure the USB Hub you are using is adequately powered to provide full charging current to the Zen player. Also, try to have the Zen MP3 player as the only USB device, if possible, on the USB hub.
Some/most Creative Zen flash MP3 Music players come "fully discharged" so, in the mean time, just read the manuals.
FULLY charge the Zen MP3 player for several hours (~4.0 hrs max) until the battery symbol is NOT flashing AND the battery symbol/icon has a small plug/key symbol in the middle.
After the first full charge - additional charging is much quicker about 2 /4 hours. (From 0% empty to full)
3. Go to Creative/Support/Downloads and check for the latest software releases for the Creative Zen. Then check on your Zen MP3 player under System/Information for your firmware revision. Make sure you have the latest software downloaded on your PC and firmware on your Zen MP3 player. < Latest revision [.2.0] 28Feb08>
OR
You can run MP3 Player Recovery Tool - see above.
4. In some cases you might have to do the Recovery Mode "paper clip reset" to get the Zen MP3 flash player started.
See the Zen User's Guide FAQ. The paper clip reset hole is on the bottom edge below the music pause/run switch.
(Not the slotted mic hole on the top edge of the player near the earphone jack and SD card slot!!!)
5. My preference is to have the player shutdown/off before inserting and removing the earphone/headphone plug.
Recovery Mode Using The Paper Clip OR
Alternati've Method For Recovery Mode Without The Paper Clip.
Why use it's
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
. The player is not detected in Creative MediaSource or Windows Media Player
2. The battery does not last as expected
3. Your computer stops responding during file transfers
4. There is a power outage during file transfers
5. There is an error about firmware
6. LCD displays a "Firmware Problem" message
7. Your player is not responding.
8. The player is performing erratically.
Save a copy of your player's content, if possible, before cleaning up the memory!
Recovery Mode Using The Paper Clip Reset Method
#. Turn off player if not already turned off
#2. Press/hold play/pause button. If you accidentally release
the button, start this reset procedure over again.
#3. Gently push the end of a metal paper clip into the reset hole on
the botton edge below the play/pause switch.
(Do not use the slotted mic hole at the top edge near the earphone jack)
#4. Slide the on/off/lock switch towards the on position - slide it to the botton hold
until the display lights up and then release.
#5. The recovery mode screen appears and four menu items are shown - see below
<Alternati've Method For Recovery Mode Without The Paper Clip>
#. Turn off player if not already turned off
#2. Press/hold play/pause button. If you accidentally release
the button, start this reset procedure over again.
#3. Slide the on/off/lock switch towards the on position - slide it to the botton hold
until the display lights up and then release. Be patient and wait!
#4. The recovery mode screen appears and four menu items are shown:
< Clean Up> - cleans, rebuilds and reorganizes your player's memory and restores it to optimal efficiency.
When the cleanup is complete, select Reboot. Your player restarts and starts rebuilding its music library.
Note: Your player's firmware is reset to default settings after your player's memory is cleaned up.
Note: This procedure the hide/show password is reset.
<2 Format All>- Warning - Formatting your player erases all content on your player's memory and resets your player's firmware to default settings. If possible, back up all data on your player before proceeding.
Also, you can do this from the PC see Zen User's Guide. FAQ
<3 Reload Firmware> - Caution !!!! Selecting Reload Firmware erases your player's firmware.
DO NOT select Reload Firmware unless you have downloaded a newer firmware version for your player, or have been advised to do so by Creative Customer Support.
Note: My advice when loading/replacing firmware is to connect directly
to the PC USB port without using a USB hub.
<4 Reboot> Restarts the player just like the "on/off/lock switch" when switched ON.
Note: Having NO battery energy/charge/juice this procedure will not work.
Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery Hints
Ref:
http://www.omnica.com/omniview_electronics2.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_ion_battery
. Allow the battery to completely discharge from time-to-time then recharge it fully.
2. Lithium-Ion batteries loses about 5%- 0% capacity per month.
3. Lithium-Ion polymer batteries have about 300-500 discharge/charge cycles.
4. A half full battery indication (50% @ /2 the battery color) used up about 24 hrs worth of battery. Below 50% the indication goes fairly fast to the max of 30 hrs. Note: The battery level indication seems non-linear through out its range.
5. Battery is Empty~0% - warning screen will appear on LCD and player might shutdown.
6. Battery is Full- 00% with battery symbol NOT flashing AND plug/key symbol in the center of the battery.
7. It takes about 2 /4 hours to charge the battery from empty to full.
8. It takes about 4 hours max to charge a "New" Zen player shipped from the factory.
9. There is a battery manufactuer's failure rate, which is normal ~ % or less, in which the Lithium-Ion Polymer battery refuses to charge. Creative, ships the Zen MP3 players with some or no charge so there is very small probability that you could have one. I call it the "Deep Six Discharge Battery" Contact/call Creative for replacement.
Documentation
There are several pieces of documentation you might need to read to fully understand and use your Creative Zen MP3 flash player to its fullest capabilities.
#. Zen Users Guide "English" - For Zen MP3 Player - download from Creative/Support/Product documentation
#2. Zen Quick Users Guide /Front/Back - download from Creative/Support/Product documentation
#3. Sync Manager (Creative Zen) Click on sync symbol on PC task bar then help
#4. Creative Zen Media Explorer - Just look under the main help menu
#5. Windows Media Player <if used>(Microsoft)Use the help files with this program.
General Tips to increase/decrease the playing time on your Creative Zen flash player.
<Creative Battery Spec: 5 Hrs. Video & "UP TO" 30 Hrs. Audio/Songs>
Please do the following:
. Volume control lower/higher - higher volume settings will decrease playing times. This is logical. More output "volume power" decreases the battery juice.
2. Audio Settings: EQ, Smart Vol, & Bass Boost will effect your playing time but I believe they are not critical as the Volume & Bit Rates(28 kbsp and others) / File Format (MP3,WMA) & Lock Switch.
3. Bit Rates & File Formats Do Matter. Bit Rates and File formats will increase/decrease your playing time.
Per Catherina-CL
"WMA files will use up more power than MP3 files, and higher bitrates more so than standard ones (like 28kbps MP3). Best thing to do is rip an album in 28kbps MP3 and leave it playing in a loop on a normal volume level. See how long the battery lasts then."
Please Note: The main difference between MP3 and WMA is the compression. According to Microsoft a 64KBPS WMA file is the same quality 28KBPS MP3. This is of course up to a person's preference but you may find you can get better compression out of WMA.
4. FULLY CHARGE your Zen. This means the battery symbol is NOT flashing AND there is a plug/key symbol embedded within the battery symbol. The battery is 00% FULL under BOTH conditions. Having just the battery symbol all green will not do it.
From the link:
http://www.omnica.com/omniview_electronics2.htm
Regarding lithium-ion shelf life, one of our engineers recently met with a battery-house representati've. It has come to their attention that repeated charging and re-charging of a less than fully discharged Li-ion cell affects the battery "gas gauge" included with many devices. Over a number of cycles there is a resultant loss in accuracy. Frequently, the indicated remaining charge has little relationship to the actual amount of life left in the cell! Fortunately, according to the battery expert, the gauge will reset itself if the battery is allowed to completely discharge from time-to-time.
5. Having different types of earphones/headphones will increase or decrease the playing time by how much "electronic load" the earphones/headphones create on the Zen player. There are some power hungry earphones/headphones out there.
The 6 ohm earbuds conserves battery power more than the 32 ohm earbuds supplied by Creative. (About 0% more)
6. Always, always lock your Zen player while playing music. This cuts off the power drain from the color 2.5" LCD and blank the LCD screen. After all, you can't read the LCD screen if it is in your shirt pocket and playing music!
7. Make sure you have the latest firmware upgrades in order to get the best of your Creative Zen Flash MP3 Player.
Troubleshooting
Your Creative Zen is extremely complex.
Check this link to peek inside player http://www.anythingbutipod.com/archi...isassembly.php
Also, this link:
http://arstechnica.com/journals/hard...ssor-behind-it
There could be a million things that could go wrong with your player so you will not be the FIRST or LAST to have a problem. Keep in mind, there are many, many others that have the Zen with no problems whatsoever. Things happen, but Creative is there to help.
Dropping a Zen or any other player might/will/possibly ruin the player for good!!!
Since this player is solid-state (no moving parts e.g. mini-disk dri've) then the only thing that will keep it from running for years is the non-user replaceable Lithium-Ion battery. I will concentrate on some troubleshooting tips which are battery related but I hope you have already the latest firmware downloaded and installed on your player
Battery - Lithium-Ion Polymer
#. Battery won't charge "out of the box" new player.
A. First, read above "Getting Started"
B. Next, try a different USB mini cable.
C. Next, there is a battery manufactuer's failure rate < %, in which the Lithium-Ion Polymer battery refuses to charge.
Creative, ships the Zen MP3 players with no charge so there is very small probability thatyou could have one.
I call it the "Deep Six Discharge Battery" Call / Contact Creative.
#2. Battery won't charge properly after using the player for some time.
A. When you plug in your player into the USB port via mini USB patch cable, the connection resets the player to the "docked screen" with the battery level gas guage , in the right hand corner.
Sometimes this action does not reset the player properly but there is no indication to you that the player is charging.
Just disconnect/connect the USB cable again.
B. Sometimes, the Zen player gets confused and you have to do a Recovery Mode "paper clip reset" which forces the player into a "special menu screen" to clean-up the player and to reset the player which allows showing the "docked screen" while charging the unit. See Zen User's Guide for explicit instruction und FAQ.
C. Since the Zens came out late in 2007, the maximum of 300-500 charge/discharge should not apply YETbut users beware, as with any other Lithium-Ion Polymer battery it will not charge fully "like new"because of a " fixed shelf life" (2-3 yrs) OR too many charge/discharge cycles. A battery replacement is in order.
Methods of charging the Creative Zen MP3
. The short mini-standard USB cable provided by Creative from the factory. Plugs into a PC USB port.
2. Uni'versal Power Adapter (Creative) plugs into the wall. Works "anywhere in the world"
Note: Different countries have different wall AC voltages and hertz requirements. This has adapters for different countries/locations wall outlets and a uni'versal power supply for all voltage and hertz requirements.
Note: This is a heavy duty high/fast charging wall outlet charging adapter. (2400 ma)
3. Auto/Vehicle 2 VDC charger (Creative) or other compatible vehicle 2 VDC to USB charger.
4. EARHUGGER IPOD POWER POD - MP3-8370 (White compact module)
http://www.earhugger.com/powerPod.html
http://www.amazon.com/Earhugger-MP3-.../dp/B000QTTKSS
This compact module will solve all the following travel modes and conditions:
. Camping, hiking or outdoor travel - no PC or noAC or maybe no auto/car.
2. Airplane travel - no PC or no AC or no auto/car.
3. Train/subway travel - no PC or no auto/car
4. Car travel - no PC or no AC
5. Foot travel - no PC or no AC or no auto/car
It uses 4 ways to charge the Zen:
. Retractable mini-standard USB cord for PC charging. <--- does not communicate with PC! - only for charging
2. Retractable mini USB cord for auto/vehicle charging (Fused)
3. Retractable mini USB cord for wall 0-20 VAC 50/60Hz charging. (non-international use plug style)
4. 9 VDC battery terminal for using standard alkaline 9 VDC or high ma Lithium 9 VDC to charge the Zen via
mini USB cable. Note:You might need several alkaline batteries to charge the internal 550 ma hr Zen battery!
Great for remote destinations.
5. Rechargeable portable battery packs.
Black & Decker has several "Power To Go"models CPI0B-C & CPI20XB (not for international use because of 20 AC 60Hz only charging wall wart)
Note: There are other brands that also do this method of charging.
http://www.blackanddecker.com/Produc...Path=4033.4040
You charge this portable NiMH battery pack from the AC wall outlet so you can carry with you on trips to charge the Zen.
6. Mobile phone chargers. Some have a mini-USB plug for charging the phone but it could be used to charge the Zen BUT BEWARE IT COULD RUIN THE ZEN IF IT IS NOT COMPATIBLE! The output should have a voltage of 5 VDC +- 5% (4.75-5.25 VDC) ON THE PROPER MINI-USB PINS and a charging current at least 200 ma to 2400 ma. See this forum for the recommend phone phone chargers to use with the Zen.
Note: You are charging an internal Lithium-ion polymer 550 mahr battery in the Zen so the lower the charging current the longer it takes to charge.
Note: You will find that charging the Zen from the wall charger is much faster than the "current limited" charging on the standard PC USB port.
Note: For diagnostic purposes and emergency charging of the Zen it is wise to have an external (non-PC) charging device for your Zen.
Note: Only the battery charging symbol shows up on the Zen when using an external charger.
Scratches
All plastic screens will scratch, doesn't matter which type you have.
For minor scratches you could use the Novus three part cleaner, polish and scratch remover system. Do not use the #3 coarse abrasi've in this system! Be extremely careful in using this product !!!! Please check the web.
OR
Low abrasi've toothpase <--- some say this works
OR
CD scratch remover/repair kit <---- have not tried this.
The Zen (Flash) MP3 glass LCD screen is covered by the overlay plastic you see on the front. Worst case, you can have only the outer shell repaired and replaced by Creative.
To prevent scratches in the first place:
Use the Zen cloth bag which comes with the unit (sometimes ) to prevent scratches.
OR
Buy the Zen clear plastic case (Clear Case #70AB2600002). Sold by Creative.
OR
Buy an clear plastic overlay. (Screen protector #70AB2600003) which goes over the LCD protector screen for protection. Sold by Creative.
OR
Also, you can cut up a "generic" PDA screen protector to fit the Zen.
OR
Obtain a "digital camera lcd screen protector" from a camera store or internet
OR
"Invisible shield" -The best protection money can buy
http://www.zagg.com/invisibleshield/...ns-shields.php
How to destroy your Zen - WHAT NOT TO DO
. Leave it in the auto/car/vehicle - the vehicle inside heats up 20-35 F higher than the outside temperature.
2. Leave it outside in freezing temperature 0C 32F. The LCD will freeze/discolor/absorb water.
Note: It is remotely possible it could recover when warm-up at room temperature.
Note: Just keep the Zen near your body heat when outside in freezing temperatures.
3. Dropping it might cause the LCD screen to crack or loosen up the internal connections to the electronics or short out the internal electronics.
Note: Use a protecti've case to cushion the blow from dropping the Zen.
4. Dropping or submerging or getting the Zen wet in water might short out the electronics and battery.
You could prevent destruction by immediately shaking the Zen vigorously in open air to dry it out.
5. Sitting on it could flex the electronics and short or open circuits which would cause a defecti've/faulty Zen.
<A bit of humor ... There is No Santa Claus, Easter Bunny or Tooth fairy and Creative does NOT give away money. If you destroy or damage your Zen you will pay not Creative>
How can you tell if your Zen is defecti've/faulty
. A "white screen" or a "totally blank black screen" shows up on the Zen LCD.
2. You cannot force the Zen into the special "Recovery Mode" menu screen.
3. The Zen refuses to "take a charge"(To charge up the internal Lithium-Ion Polymer battery)
4. The Zen LCD is cracked or distorted due to dropping or handling abuse.
5. The Zen clock does not keep accurate time (within 2 mins max per month)
Contact Creative if any of the above faults occur - the Zen is bad and nothing you can do will fix it!
WSOD "White Screen of Death"
The "White Screen of Death" is really caused by a hardware problem. You see, the internal Freescale/SigmaTel STMP3700 MP3 processor has to write to the LCD. If this operation is prevented by internal electronic opens or shorts, bad STMP3700, locked-up firmware, bad LCD or any other electronic component failure then the CPU might/will halt and refuse to write to the LCD which will be reflected in a "white screen of death" I cannot cover all the causes of the "white screen of death" but rest assured Creative should pick these problems up in their quality control manufacturing process with a 99% success rate. Problems do show up after the manufacturing process but Creative has warranty protection for this other % fault rate. (Which is normal in electronics manufacturing)
Media Content
Listening to the built-in music on the Zen is OK but after a while your question now becomes "What else can I do with my Zen "
Note: The "How to" instructions for adding Media content can be found in the Zen documentation.
Terminology:
Album: Collection of tracks or songs under one "album" title.
Artist: Track or song artist
DRM: Digital rights management - copy protection scheme - Zen cannot use music with this music protection scheme. (itunes) (But "itunes plus" will work)
Genres: Type or kind of music
<The following genres are defined in ID3v>
Blues,Classic Rock,Country,Dance,Disco,Funk,Grunge,Hip-Hop,Jazz,Metal,New Age,Oldies,Other,Pop,
R&B,Rap,Reggae,Rock,Techno,Industrial,Alternati've ,Ska,Death Metal,Pranks,Soundtrack,Euro-Techno,
Ambient,Trip-Hop,Vocal,Jazz+Funk,Fusion,Trance,Classical,Instru mental,Acid,House,Game,Sound Clip,
Gospel,Noise,AlternRock,Bass,Soul,Punk,Space,Medit ati've,Instrumental Pop,Instrumental Rock,
Ethnic,Gothic,Darkwave,Techno-Industrial,Electronic,Pop-Folk,Eurodance,Dream,Southern Rock,
Comedy,Cult,Gangsta,Top 40,Christian Rap,Pop/Funk,Jungle,Nati've American,Cabaret,New Wave,
Psychadelic,Rave,Showtunes,Trailer,Lo-Fi,Tribal,Acid Punk,Acid Jazz,Polka,Retro,Musical,Rock & Roll,
Hard Rock
<The following genres are Winamp extensions>
Folk,Folk-Rock,National Folk,Swing,Fast Fusion,Bebob,Latin,Revival,Celtic,Bluegrass,Avantg arde,
Gothic Rock,Progressi've Rock,Psychedelic Rock,Symphonic Rock,Slow Rock,Big Band,Chorus,
Easy Listening,Acoustic,Humour,Speech,Chanson,Opera,Cha mber Music,Sonata,Symphony,
Booty Bass,Primus,Porn Groove,Satire,Slow Jam,Club,Tango,Samba,Folklore,Ballad,Power Ballad,
Rhythmic Soul,Freestyle,Duet,Punk Rock,Drum Solo,A capella,Euro-House,Dance Hall
<A bit of humor: I think the above Genres lists are missing two - "elevator music" & Crying and Whining e.g. Country Western>
ID3 Tags: Internal file information associated with an Mp3 or wav audio file. This format contains
Track number, Album name/title, Genre, Artist and Song Title which can be sorted and indexed by
the Zen device.
IPTV: Is a system where a digital television service is deli'vered using Internet Protocol over a network infrastructure, which may include deli'very by a broadband connection. http://zencast.com/
JPEG: Is a commonly used method of compression for photographic images.
This is the only photo format used by the Zen.
MP3 and WMA music tracks: Music format used by the Zen.
Note: Having the wrong bit rates will drain the Zen battery faster. (See above)
MP3: Is a digital audio encoding format using a form of lossy data compression.
Non-protected AAC: Files are regular AAC files without any DRM: they can be converted to other formats (like MP3) and can be played on an unlimited amount of devices and burned an unlimitd amount of times. They have no restrictions.
Podcast: Is a series of digital-media files which are distributed over the Internet using syndication feeds for playback on portable media players and computers. http://zencast.com/
Protected AAC: Files are AAC audio files that contain DRM (Digital Rights Management), most often music purchased from the iTunes store. The Creative Zen cannot use these files.
Note: "Itunes Plus Store" have songs without DRM which the Zen can use.
Ripping CDs: Copying tracks from an audio CD on a PC and downloading tracks to the Zen.
Note: Use the Creative Zen Media Explorer for ripping audio CD is one method.
Song Title: Name of song or track
Track Number: Numerical number of track of CD album.
Track: General name for song or song title.
Unprotected AAC format: Music format used by the Zen
WMA:Is an audio data compression technology developed by Microsoft. The name can be used to refer to its audio file format or its audio codecs.
WAV: (or WAVE), short for Waveform audio format, is a Microsoft and IBM audio file format standard for storing an audio bitstream on PCs.
Note: The Zen's built-in microphone produces this audio file format.
Zen Audio Format:MP3, WMA, WAV, non-protected AAC (.m4a), Audible (2, 3, 4)
Zen Media Content: Video, Music, Audio, Photos/Images transferred/dowloaded into the Zen
Zen Photo Format:JPEG
Note: You can copy/drag/paste JPEG photos from your PC to your Zen for viewing.
Note: You can import photos & view photos from the SD card.
Zencast Organizer: Seamlessly integrates ZENcast media files with Creative portable media players and/or your computer
Zen Video Format:MJPEG, WMV9 and (with transcoding - MPED4-SP, DivX 4/5 and XviD)
Warning - In some countries (including the US) its illegal to do:
Copying audio DVD & DVDs
Defeating DRM MP3 Music (Digital Rights Management)
Intercepting/copying (non purchased) music.
Downloading music/songs from an illegal or "free" rouge website.
General Media Content links:
http://pro-music.org/Content/GetMusi...lineStores.php
Note: Check to see if your music files/tracks contains ID3 tags.
Note: ZEN also supports iTunes Plus tracks from the iTunes store,
Note: The following media content is only a small fraction of means and ways
of collecting/dowloading media content to the Zen.
Media Content from Creative Website(s)
Note: The Media Content can be found under "Fill your Zen" on the bottom of the Creative Zen product page.
http://zencast.com/
ZENcast is the ultimate source for free IPTV channels, video blogs and podcasts on the Internet. It provides quick and easy access to a wide range of interesting and entertaining video and audio content online.
http://www.audible.com/adbl/site/cre...seBVCookie=Yes
Audible.com - Audible.comis the Internet s leading audio provider of bestselling audio books, comedy programs and today s most relevant magazines and newspapers
http://creative.vongo.com/
VONGO is the video download service that gives you instant access to over 2500 hit movie and video selections from Starz .
Watch movies whenever, wherever on your ZEN. A great entertainment venue for watching movies while on the road or on the go.
http://www.napster.com/creative/
Transfer unlimited music to your ZEN without paying per song.
With Napster To Go you can:
Choose from over 5 million songs, plus new releases every week
Play music instantly from any internet-connected computer
Find old favorites and discover new music by exploring playlists, radio, Billboard charts and more
Create a library of your favorite music and build custom playlists.
http://www.emusic.com/ZEN
Choose from over ,500,000 songs
Burn unlimited CDs
Compatible with every MP3 player
No confusing restrictions-Own your music!
http://www.lala.com/frontend/action/...=user:2672@223
Why pay 99per song when you can get the whole album for $At lala.com, you can trade your used CDs for new music.
.8 million titles available for trade. CD quality guaranteed.
Every CD you receive is yours to keep - no restrictions.
Pay only $ per CD received. No monthly fees or commitments. Sign up is FREE.
http://www.amazon.com/b/ &node=62663
Buy or Rent Movies Online
Watch DVD-quality video downloads on your PC or ZEN
Conveniently download from your PC at work to your PC at home
Discover thousands of TV shows & movies available for download
I started this thread in April 08 to help other new Creative Zen MP3 (Flash) users. If there are common threads that are posted from new users then I try to make a section to inform other new users in solving their similar problems. I cannot believe that this thread was viewed over 0,000 times! Thank you for your "viewing" support.
Please note: This thread is constantly changing so check back for any new helpful hints, problem solving, troubleshooting and practical solutions for the Creative Zen.
"The Creative ZenR O C K S"
Zenandy
Message Edited by Zenandy on 08--2008 08:26 AM

Hi,
I'm from germany so no 'best buy' but I think I will lock around sleeve/bag for a different product with same measures. Any tip?
The clear plastic case is not what I want. I would like to use the player without such protections. I just want a sleeve to protect the player while its in my jacket/pants.
Btw, i have bought this version: Creative Zen (maybe european version?). I also doesn't seem to have your mentioned sleeve. I also couldn't find it on the website.
Anyway, thank you,
Chris

Having Trouble with Creative Zen Touch 20G

Hey everybody. I bought me a 20G Creative Zen Touch (you know, the one where the scroll thing is in the middle of the player, vertically?). Anyway, i bought it a couple of weeks ago and it's pretty **bleep** cool. No problems with it.....until today. I was watering the lawn, listening to my music (no, it didn't get wet), when all of a sudden it stopped working all together. Well, at first i saw some "Voice Recording" thing i had never seen before and no matter what i pushed, nothing happened. I couldn't even turn it off. I tapped it on the side, then it began working again. I decided to shut it off and put it in my room. Later when i went back to it,it wouldn't turn back on at all!!! Even though it's battery was charged, i decided to plug it into the charger where, once i plugged it in, i got a screen that said:
"CREATIVE ZEN
Copyright (c) 2004
Creative Technology Ltd.
All Rights Reserved"
And thats how it is currently: Nothing at all happens when it's disconnected from the charger and i try to turn it on. When connected to the charger, i get said screen, but thats it. No music, not even the blue backlight or the blue blinking light on the power button indicating that it's charging. :smileyindifferent:
Can someone tell me what's going on/how to fix this? We have been getting unbelievably hot weather here in So. Cal and i have the feeling that the hot temperature may have something to do with this. I've tried keeping the player in the coolest place in the house (besides the freezer) which would be near a fan so it could be in a cooler place, but even leaving it in such place for a couple hours isn't helping me.

Hey buddy
same problem with me. The zen got little moist due to rain, after that it froze at the 'Creative screen' that too comes on when i connect it to charger. I disconnected the battery, it worked for a while but it is back to same position now. It dosent responds to resetting pin... nothing happens it is dead. Only when i disconnect battey and connect charger ... give it a big whack it works for a while then hangs again.
Still trying my stuff on it. Otherwise i will format it and reload the firmware later on.
if u get any solution let me know on [email][email protected]][email protected][/url]
thankx

Trouble with creative zen 16b

Hello
I just bought a creative zen (6B) with version .20.02. I was able to transfer music from my windows media player once. But now i plug my zen to my laptop (windows vista 32b service pk) and nothing happens....does not recognize my zen. I had it setup to sync automatic when plugged into my pc but still Shows No player Connected, when indeed it is. What Can I do to fix this problem?

Is the player recognised in the Device Manager, do you see it listed there (perhaps as an unknown device, or with an exclamation mark)?
Check out this knowledgebase article for some useful tips if the player isn't recognised, it'll take you through them step-by-step:
http:// us.creative.com/support/kb/article.asp?l=2&sid=9287
Cat

Creative ZEN MX problems with charging battery

/Creative ZEN MX problems with charging batteryHi!
I've bought Creative Zen MX player a couple months ago. First thing I noticed when I plug in it into my computer was that battery after 3 hours was not full, what is more computer disconnected with it couple times;/
After weeks or two when I tried to charge it i Went where I bought it and they said after some examination that it really didn't work
They've sent it to the service. I had t wait for the return two months!!! and at the end they said that that tiny usb wire was damaged not mp3.
OK . The battery was fully charged maybe on 5 attempts ;/
There is no problem in my computer because I tried it on several other and it did not work ;/ ?Please, help me
Where is the problem?
?Why this player simply disconnect with my PC?

I was given this as a gift. I charged it for 8hrs when i got it and it showed fully charged. I have been trying to give it a full charge over the last 2 days once on a power adapter plugged into the wall the other through the USB port on my laptop .each for about 8hrs each. Using different cables. I remove the player and it shows full battery (never gives the plug icon though)and within 30 minutes of play music, I get the low battery warning. it was purchased on 0/6/200. nAlso it will not power on while charging.My original ZEN was able to play music when charging this one says DOCKED and will not repond to the power button being presses.

Creative Zen stone with speaker not recognized by Vista 32

My creative zen stone with speaker is not recognized by computer. Downloaded starter pack and it worked, but the first time i disconnected it and connected again, the device is not in "my computer". It is listed as working properly under "safely remove hardware". Uninstalled drivers, and connected again, driver was installed and I am told the device is ready to be used, but it is still no where to be seen, and update tools etc. also does not recognize connected device.
thank you

Try going into "Control Panel->Administrati've tools" and clicking on "Computer Management". Find "disk management" in the left pane and click it. Your Stone should be in the right somewhere. I think you need to right click, then "choose dri've letter and paths" and give it a dri've letter with the "add" button. Let us know if that works.

Creative ZEN MX Sort/organize music

#Creative ZEN MX Sort/organize music>Device: ZEN MX
Firmware: .04.0
So i got a ZEN MX, i was pretty happy with it... but now i'm starting to get very pissed off..
The way its sort his music on **bleep** "mp3 tags" i find it complete bullsh*t!
Why? because not all mp3's have tags, or tags that does not "fit" ( to the mp3 filename ) so it organizes the mp3's like sh*t anyway..
Now i completly removed all mp3 tags from all the mp3 tracks on my ZEN MX, and the player shows me no mp3 tracks anymore... ( accept for weird named folder with 500 piled up, **bleep**y sorted mp3's in it or something )
WTF is wrong with sorting on filename like any other device!?
If anyone got an idea or a fix, to make the ZEN MX sort his mp3 files decently, please tell me! Im desperate

I've spent a bit of time today, with Mp3tag, to try to understand what is going on with the MX sorting.
I used Mp3tag with the list of mp3s on my pc, (which was a copy of that on the zen) to add the relevent info. Some of my mp3s were just converts from clips from films etc, and had no relevent tag info. With this program, it is easy to add it.
It doesn't take too long to experiment to realise its advantages. (tag sort).
My gripe originally was the grouping of files - or tracks.
Especially if you had made your own compilation 'album'.
However, I have found you can do this easily in Mp3tag by grouping the files together, by filling their album field with 'Compliation ' or 'Various Artists' for example.
If you add the track number into the 'track' list aswell, you automatically order the track playing sequence.
It is really another way of creating a playlist but giving it an album reference of your own.
You can also add an album cover picture freely to any mp3. There is a built-in online database search for this, but i found it easier to search on the web, then used the wikipedia result for a source of album pictures. They happen to be around the right size too...
I then deleted the files on the zen and copied the whole lot across again, with the tag data in.
I now have some exclusi've albums and with cover pictures, along with all the others which have album covers.
I can only suggest giving it a go....
I can see it is the way forward for flexibility.

Creative zen 32gb question

looking at this one: [url="http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Portable-Media-Player-Black/dp/B002YPMOC/ref=sr__2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=23633786&sr=-2">zen 32gb[/url]
my question is this:
does this mp3 player require proprietary software to put songs on it or can i just take a folder from my computer, and put it in the music directory on the player using drag and drop
i did a search but so many "creative zen" players came up i dont know which one to even look at. seems like some can and some cant. im trying to research it now through other means but im just kind of hoping someone on here that owns one can let me know what is required.

First of all, I'm assuming that you are already clued-up on moving your CD albums onto your hard disk. You should, by the way, always create a folder for each CD/Album, and put all the tracks into that folder.
From your question, it appears that you haven't yet purchased a Zen. Your Zen comes with some programs to help you do things. In the context of your question here, you get a "Zen Media Explorer" which allows you to do the following:
. Move your CD/Album folders into your Zen.
2. Make a playlist for each of the above folders.
Then if you want to play an album in your Zen simply select a playlist and click "Play".
There are other ways of doing things, but the above strategy keeps everything tidy and easy to find (and play).
You can, for instance, create your own"mixes" (putting each into a playlist). You can of course select individual tracks, and (if you want) set "random play".
You might also find it useful to always set the sleep timer to (say) one hour - then if you forget to switch your Zen off, you won't flatten your battery. When you switch on again, you'll automatically be put into the playlist/track/position-in-track that you were in when "sleep" kicked in. This "return-to-place" also works if you deliberately switch off.
One other recommendation - always switch to "lock" when playing. In "lock" the display is switched off, so you'll get about 24 hours of audio play on one battery charge. If you don't use the lock, the extra drain by the display will shorten your battery life before you need a recharge to something between 2 and 5 hours.

What are the defects that occur in the Creative Zen produc

Hi! I am new to all these MP3 players (I am still stuck in the CD player era) but I have been wanting to upgrade to a new, high tech player. After researching for a LONG time (I have considered the Creative Zen micro, Creative Zen Micro photo, Ipod mini, Ipod Nano, 4th gen Ipod, Cowan Iaudio, Olympus M:Robe500i, and Archos Gimini 402) I have concluded with the Creative products, that unlike the Ipods, have more features for the same price or lower. I briefly thought about the IAudio and the Archos since they play movies but decided that they were too expensi've. Plus, it having a removable battery was enticing since do not li've int he United States and I wouldn't have to be sending things in for repair or replacement of battery.
Now, I was very pumped about the Zen Micro but have since learned that there are a few defects.
the Creative Zen micro, from what I gathered, has a problem that the player stops working and only boots up to the Creative logo. I think I understand that this comes from something disconnecting from the HD inside. ANOTHER problem seems to be the earphone jack breaking and being pushed in.
I want to know if this is fixed in any of the versions of the Zen Micros. I think I heard that the 5GB ones are the ones that do this. If anything, i would get the 6 GB version and would like to know if the 6GB Zen Micros do this. It is at Best Buy for $50 plus tax ($60+ total).
I am also considering ordering the Zen Micro Photo (though it costs $40 bucks more just for color) form Best Buy ($202 total). Does the Zen Micro Photo fix the problems of the past players? Does it have any new defects?
Another player I am interested in is the Zen Sleek, which is the same price of the Zen Micro Photo, but has 2 GB more (though I don't really need it). It doesn't have color but whatever. Does this player have any of the previous defects or any defects at all? Can I use it to transfer files, like the the Micros can (I assume the Micro Photo can also) without having to install software on a PC (like the whole partition thing from the Micros). Does it have a removable Battery?
ANY HELP would be appreciated. I am a very cautious buyer and I do not want to hassle with stuff. I li've in the Dominican republic and I do NOT want to go shipping stuff overseas to get it fixed. That is why I am buying a Zen product, since it has removable Batteries and I don't have to send it in to get replaced. I do not want to spend 00 bucks and 3 months of waiting for things.
Also, on any defect, what seems to be the percentage? I know creative has not acknowledged any defects but there obviously are, since things happen to the same product, the same way, the same place.
Thanks for any help, again. Sorry for being so lengthy. I just like to have as much info down. It is that that Best Buy deal is too good.

jimm20 wrote:
the Creative Zen micro, from what I gathered, has a problem that the player stops working and only boots up to the Creative logo. I think I understand that this comes from something disconnecting from the HD inside.
I wouldn't call this a common problem.
ANOTHER problem seems to be the earphone jack breaking and being pushed in.
Not sure about being pushed in, but the solder connection on some Micros was too weak and easily broken.
I want to know if this is fixed in any of the versions of the Zen Micros. I think I heard that the 5GB ones are the ones that do this. If anything, i would get the 6 GB version and would like to know if the 6GB Zen Micros do this. It is at Best Buy for $50 plus tax ($60+ total).
No-one knows for sure if it was fixed. Creative Support didn't confirm or deny it had been fixed on the board here. Others have had emails from Creative saying that it has been fixed in newer players.
I am also considering ordering the Zen Micro Photo (though it costs $40 bucks more just for color) form Best Buy ($202 total). Does the Zen Micro Photo fix the problems of the past players? Does it have any new defects?
People say the sound quality isn't as great as past players, and there is some slight noise when the backlight is turned on. Aside from not being able to view photos and listen to music at the same time. Search back for reviews by other folks.
Another player I am interested in is the Zen Sleek, which is the same price of the Zen Micro Photo, but has 2 GB more (though I don't really need it). It doesn't have color but whatever. Does this player have any of the previous defects or any defects at all?
The Sleek seems to be a great player. I don't recall seeing any common issues with it.
Can I use it to transfer files, like the the Micros can (I assume the Micro Photo can also) without having to install software on a PC (like the whole partition thing from the Micros). Does it have a removable Battery?
It doesn't have a removable battery.
It has the MTP/PFS firmware that means you can only use it to copy audio files with Win XP.
It has the USB mass storage function that means you can copy data files to it with Win 98/Me/2000 and XP.
Also, on any defect, what seems to be the percentage? I know creative has not acknowledged any defects but there obviously are, since things happen to the same product, the same way, the same place.
No-one except Creative knows these figures.

How do I import music and picture files from my Creative Zen?

I have a Creative Zen media player, which uses Windows Media Player to operate. I have downloaded media player for Mac OS X, but cannot figure out how to import my music. On my old PC, when I plugged in my mp3 player, it automatically was recognized. Nothing happens when I plug it in to my iMac. What do I need to do?

I have bought a couple of Creative MuVo's for loved ones, and they, as removable USB thumb drives, work well with any OS. The Zen, on the other hand, doesn't have the design simplicity of the MuVo, which is why I didn't buy one. I think that they will pretty much only work with Windows.
One thing is for sure: If you plug in the Zen and it doesn't mount on the Desktop or in a Finder window, it isn't going to work with OS X--yet, at the same time, might possibly get corrupted or damaged when it fails to mount correctly and then you unplug it
P.S. Windows Media Player 7.1 for Mac does not have any support for portable players, and given the availability of Microsoft's free Flip4Mac plugin, is truly a worthless download. If this program has been installed, it would probably be best to delete it (and its preference files for that matter) to avoid potential conflicts with the up-to-date Flip4Mac plugin, which I assume you're going to install. Keep in mind that this plugin has nothing to do with adding support for portable players, but since we're on the subject of Windows Media Player, I thought it in good judgment to mention this.

Creative ZEN Firmware 1.21.03 Released

Hi Everyone,
There is a new firmware update for the Creative ZEN available in the Support section.
Creative ZEN Firmware .2.03
Filesize : 7.6 MB
Release date : 9 Jan 09
File Name : ZEN_PCFW_L22__2_03.exe
This download contains an improved version of the firmware found on your Creative ZEN® player. It ensures smooth operation of your player's FM Radio. For more details, read the rest of this web release note.
Fix:
Ensures smooth operation of your player's FM Radio.
Requirements:
Microsoft® Windows Vista®, Windows® XP (Service Pack 2)
Windows Media® Player 0 or later
USB port
Creative ZEN player
Note:
To install this firmware
Download the ZEN_PCFW_L22__2_03.exe file into your local hard disk.
Close all application windows that are currently running on your computer.
Connect your player to your computer.
Double-click the downloaded file and follow the instructions on the screen.
If your player fails to restart after the firmware upgrade:
Turn off your player.
Disconnect your player from your computer.
Press and hold the Play/Pause button. Continue to hold the button while you perform steps 4 and 5. If you accidentally release the button, start the procedure again.
Gently push a straightened paper clip into the Reset hole.
Slide the On/Off switch towards the USB port and hold until the display lights up. The Recovery Mode screen appears with four options: Clean Up, Format All, Reload Firmware, and Reboot.
Select Reload Firmware, followed by Yes.
Connect your player to your computer.
Double-click the downloaded file and follow the instructions on the screen.

Re: New Creative ZEN Firmware .2.03" firmware does not work$ I updated my Zen 32GB using Vista x64 so it can work under some situations. Can't say my upgrade went problem-free but it did work in the end.
You might try some of the following (no promises they will help, but can't really hurt):
Re-download the firmware updater. Maybe you got a bad download.
Make sure your Zen is directly connected to a system USB port (i.e. not to a port on a monitor, keyboard, ext USB hub, etc.)
Try running the firmware update as Administrator if you aren't already
Try uninstalling the Creative drivers before the update.
In my case I got stuck on a message that another application was using my Zen. Turned out the simple act of hooking up the player resulted in Vista running a headless "wmplayer.exe *32" process. I had to manually kill it from TaskManager in order to proceed. Even then the first update attempt ended with the Zen reporting a firmware problem and rebooting into the Recovery Menu. I had to use Reload Firmware to erase what it had and then try again. Second time was the charm.
After all that I can't for the life of me see any changes/improvements in the new firmware. The forum is full of gripes and wishlists yet none of them complain about the radio functionality. I've used it almost every day for year without issue (aside from the rare Zen hang/crash when messing with the headphone jack and/or sliding the power switch). Thank goodness after waiting 0- months since the last update they got around to fixing something nobody noticed was broken. /2?:smileyvery-happy:

Creative Zen Mozaic EZ100 stuck on 'rebuilding' screen

Hi,
I bought my Creative Zen Mozaic EZ00 in February and yesterday, after adding files to it and disconnecting the usb, it went onto the 'rebuilding' screen and became stuck there. I reset it and when I turned it back on, it stuck on the same screen once again. I have tried accessing the recovery menu, but it won't appear.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
LK

:Mine does this sometimes. i tried to recovery mode-nothing worked. tried firmware-nothing. so i deleted everything on my ZEN Mozaic and unplugged and waited for it to load up and then i plugged it on the USB and aded my music and took it off and it worked. but i hate to do this everytime.

Installation Problems with Creative ZEN an Win XP SP3 (germ

Hi,
first of all, i am german so my english isn't hte best...
i bought a creative ZEN 4GB. i installed all the stuff on the installation-cd restarted my system plugged the ZEN in my USB-Port WIN XP mentioned a new device and wanted to install an MTP device. i clicked on automatical search after some seconds windows found that mtp device but after two seconds a becam an error-message (it's in german: "ein dienstinstallationsabschnitt dieser INF datei ist ung?ltig"). so i can't communicate with my ZEN,i can't load music on it and so on.
do you have any idea how i can communicate with my PC and the ZEN ? please help me :-)
my system:
AMD 2500+
gig DDR RAM
enough hard-disk-space
WIN XP PRO SP3
thaks a lot

Der erforderliche Abschnitt wurde in der INF-Datei nicht gefunden (Fehlermeldung in Windows XP)Wenn Sie ein Creative-Produkt installieren und Sie erhalten die Windows XP-Fehlermeldung "Der erforderliche Abschnitt wurde in der INF-Datei nicht gefunden", ?berpr?fen Sie bitte Folgendes.
Stellen Sie sicher, dass Sie in Windows XP ?ber die neuesten Treiber f?r Ihr Produkt verf?gen. Um zu pr?fen, welches die neuesten Treiber f?r Creative-Produkte sind, klicken Sie hier.<
Knowlage base SID 7777

CREATIVE ZEN MICRO and WINDOWS VI

I hope this question has not been repeated.
I have a Creative Zen Micro and have attempted to install it on my current computer that uses Windows Vista 32-bit. However, it was unable to install or find the driver necessary.
I've already looked at the 'driver release plans'?for this product and there is only a page regarding 'Nati've Support', which says 'The MP3 products ZEN Micro, ... require the latest firmware to ensure Nati've Support in Window Vista'.
I've searched for firmware for the Zen Micro on a Windows Vista 32-bit in English, and found nothing.
How can I make this product work with my Windows Vista 32-bit computer ?
Thank you !!!

Robby & Lizzy
First of all for a little background information, the problem lies in a problem between Creative's firmware installation program and Windows Media Player . WMP is standard in Windows Vista. As a matter of historical information, Creative has not developed any drivers for Windows Vista, therein the rub; Windows Vista does support the Microsoft PlaysForSure initiati've, and many of the older players like the Micro series does have PlaysForSure firmware available to enable the player to be used in Windows Vista.
Now for an outline of the necessary ste
ps.
Back up all of the content on your Micro. The firmware that you will install includes a disk format that will erase all of the content and change the way that the disk dri've on the Micro is formatted.
You'll need to find a Windows XP system that does not have Windows Media Player installed. You or the owner of the system should also be knowledgeable in the use of Windows XP System Restore feature so that you can return the system to it's previous state after you are finished with it.
Create a Restore Point on the XP system. Download and install the drivers for your Zen Micro to the XP system. This will enable the player to be recognized by the computer.
Download the PlaysForSure driver for the Micro, V2.2.02, to the desktop of the XP system.
Connect the player to the system with a USB cable and execute the program.
When the firmware installation has completed, the player will reboot. You may disconnect the player. After you have confimed that the firmware revision is correct on the Micro, do a System Restore to put that system back in the condition that you found it.
Connect the Micro to your Vista system and it should recognize the player and install the nati've Windows PlaysForSure driver and pair it with your Micro.
RobbyBobson wrote:
Would it be possible for someone to post a step by step guide that helps me understand what exactly I have to do to get my Zen working. Help would be much appreciated.

Creative Zen Disconnects Automatical

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