Error Message "Shuffle cannot be read from or written to"

Anyone able to provide a quick solution to this problem or is my shuffle broke or is it the iTunes? I have uninstalled and installed the programs and updates and it still doesn't work.....I get the same message...
It'll be on eBay soon if its this much trouble!

Rebecca - If you have iTunes 6, download the latest iPod updater. Then run the restore function and see if that helps. BTW don't unplug the shuffle until the restore finishes. Follow the on-screen instructions it's pretty straightforward. Hope this helps.....

Similar Messages

Can't sync iPod - Error Message: "disc cannot be read from or written to"

My ipod had been working fine until recently when every time I try and sync it I get the following error message:
"Attempting to copy to the disk "iPod" failed. The disk could not be read from or written to"
I have tried all suggestions in Apple's support article for this issue but nothing works. Does anyone else have this problem or know how to solve it?
Thanks a lot.
H
Macbook Pro Mac OS X (10.4.10)
Macbook Pro Mac OS X (10.4.10)

Hi all,
I am sorry to report that I too have this same disc error problem when syncing my iPod to my iTunes library. I take no comfort in knowing that I am one of many that have this same error. I checked on the iPod lounge forum and I just couldn't count the number of users that had the same problem. There are just so many!
I too have tried "5 r's" and I have also tried using a few "s" words and others...lol.
It seems like there is no "fix" for this problem but I will say this: If there is no solution, then I will no longer be buying iPods. This is my third iPod that I have purchased. Which makes my Apple investment near the thousand dollar mark. That is way too much money spent to not have a functioning music player. I will be switching to another player to see if the grass is greener on the other side.
I have been most dissappointed with this error and I will not be "recycling" this iPod for ten percent off of my next iPod purchase.

Nano error message - "Disk cannot be read from or written to"

I've tried automatic & manual updating of my nano w/o success. IWhen I first connected to iTunes I was asked if I wanted iTunes to select songs for my Nano. I clicked "yes" and got a load of random songs from my iTunes library. Now, whenever I try to follow the instructions to delete songs or change the playlist, I get an error message "The iPod...cannot be updated. The disk could not be read to or written from". How can I get rid of the songs and get a new playlist on it? Following the instructions re manual or automatic updating gets that error message!
iPod Nano Windows XP

Thanks also. I'll have to look at the link you posted to see what the ipod updater is (technophobe), and will try the other poster's tip about the scanner. Thanks again.
> You need to restore the ipod with the ipod updater.
That's the only way to resolve this error.
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=60983

20gb iPod, error 1418, "disk cannot be read from or written to", and others

I am having a series of serious issues with my 4th gen 20gb. I have tried restoring it several times, syncing if and when it restores, then restoring it again when it tells me "disk cannot be read from or written to". Sometimes when I try restoring it i get the "unknown error 1418" message, so I disconnect the iPod and try again; sometimes it restores, sometimes it doesn't. I have also tried plain resetting it (select+menu) and that either gives me the dead smiley ipod or a folder with an exclamation point.
What can I do to salvage my beloved iPod?
Thanks for any and all help.

If a sad iPod icon or an exclamation point and folder icon appears on your iPod’s screen, or with sounds of clicking or HD whirring, it is usually the sign of a hard drive problem and you have the power to do something about it now. Your silver bullet of resolving your iPod issue – is to restore your iPod to factory settings.
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=60983
If you're having trouble, try these steps at different levels one at a time until the issue is resolved. These steps will often whip your iPod back into shape.
Make sure you do all the following “TRYs”
A. Try to wait 30 minutes while iPod is charging.
B. Try another FireWire or USB through Dock Connector cable.
C. Try another FireWire or USB port on your computer .
D. Try to disconnect all devices from your computer's FireWire and USB ports.
E. Try to download and install the latest version of iPod software and iTunes
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/
For old and other versions of iPod updater for window you can get here
http://www.ipodwizard.net/showthread.php?t=7369
F. Try these five steps (known as the five Rs) and it would conquer most iPod issues.
http://www.apple.com/support/ipod/five_rs/
G. Try to put the iPod into Disk Mode if it fails to appear on the desktop
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93651
If none of these steps address the issue, you may need to go to Intermediate level listed below in logical order. Check from the top of the lists to see if that is what keeping iPod from appearing on your computer in order for doing the Restore.
Intermediate Level
A. Try to connect your iPod with another computer with the iPod updater pre-installed.
B. Still can’t see your iPod, put it in Disk Mode and connect with a computer, instead of doing a Restore on iPod Updater. Go and format the iPod instead.
For Mac computer
1. Open the disk utility, hope your iPod appears there (left hand side), highlight it
2. Go to Tab “Partition”, click either “Delete” or “Partition”, if fails, skip this step and go to 3
3. Go to Tab “Erase” , choose Volume Format as “MAC OS Extended (Journaled), and click Erase, again if fails, skip it and go to 4
4. Same as step 3, but open the “Security Options....” and choose “Zero Out Data” before click Erase. It will take 1 to 2 hours to complete.
5. Eject your iPod and do a Reset
6. Open the iTunes 7 and click “Restore”
For Window computer
Go to folder “My Computer”
Hope you can see your iPod there and right click on the iPod
Choose “Format”. Ensure the settings are at “Default” and that “Quick Format” is not checked
Now select “Format”
Eject your iPod and do a Reset
Open the iTunes 7 and click “Restore”
In case you do not manage to do a “Format” on a window computer, try to use some 3rd party disk utility software, e.g.“HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool”.
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=501330&tstart=0
C. Windows users having trouble with their iPods should locate a Mac user. In many cases when an iPod won't show up on a PC that it will show up on the Mac. Then it can be restored. When the PC user returns to his computer the iPod will be recognized by the PC, reformatted for the PC, and usable again. By the way, it works in reverse too. A Mac user often can get his iPod back by connecting it to a PC and restoring it.
Tips
a. It does not matter whether the format is completed or not, the key is to erase (or partly) the corrupted firmware files on the Hard Drive of the iPod. After that, when the iPod re-connected with a computer, it will be recognized as an fresh external hard drive, it will show up on the iTunes 7.
b. It is not a difficult issue for a Mac user to find a window base computer, for a PC user, if they can’t find any Mac user, they can go to a nearest Apple Shop for a favor.
c. You may need to switch around the PC and Mac, try to do several attempts between “Format” and “Restore”
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2364921&#2364921
Advance Level
A. Diagnostic mode solution
If you have tried trouble shooting your iPod to no avail after all the steps above, chances are your iPod has a hardware problem. The iPod's built-in Diagnostic Mode is a quick and easy way to determine if you have a "bad" iPod.
You need to restart your iPod before putting it into Diagnostic Mode. Check that your hold switch is off by sliding the switch away from the headphone jack. Toggle it on and off to be safe.
Press and hold the following combination of buttons simultaneously for approximately 10 seconds to reset the iPod.
iPod 1G to 3G: "Menu" and "Play/Pause"
iPod 4G+ (includes Photo, Nano, Video, and Mini): "Menu" and "Select"
The Apple logo will appear and you should feel the hard drive spinning up. Press and hold the following sequence of buttons:
iPod 1G to 3G: "REW", "FFW" and "Select"
iPod 4G+ (includes Photo, Nano, Video, and Mini): "Back" and "Select"
You will hear an audible chirp sound (3G models and higher) and the Apple logo should appear backwards. You are now in Diagnostic Mode. Navigate the list of tests using "REW" and "FFW". The scroll wheel will not function while in diagnostic mode. For further details on Diagnostic mode can be found at http://www.methodshop.com/mp3/ipodsupport/diagnosticmode/
Try to do the 5in1, HDD R/W and HDD scan tests. Some successful cases have been reported after the running the few tests under the Diagnostic mode. In case it does not work in your case, and the scan tests reports show some errors then it proves your iPod has a hardware problem and it needs a repairing service.
B. Format your iPod with a start disk
I have not tried this solution myself, I heard that there were few successful cases that the users managed to get their iPod (you must put your iPod in disk mode before connecting with a computer) mounted by the computer, which was booted by a system startup disk. For Mac, you can use the Disk Utility (on the Tiger OS system disk), for PC user, you can use the window OS system disk. Try to find a way to reformat your iPod, again it does not matter which format (FAT32, NTFS or HFS+) you choose, the key is to erase the corrupted system files on the iPod. Then eject your iPod and do a Reset to switch out from Disk Mode. Reboot your computer at the normal way, connect your iPod back with it, open the iPod updater, and hopefully your iPod will appear there for the Restore.
If none of these steps address the issue, your iPod may need to be repaired.
Consider setting up a mail-in repair for your iPod http://depot.info.apple.com/ipod/
Or visit your local Apple Retail Store http://www.apple.com/retail/
In case your iPod is no longer covered by the warranty and you want to find a second repairing company, you can try iPodResQ or ifixit at your own risk
http://www.ipodresq.com/index.php
http://www.ifixit.com/
Just in case that you are at the following situation
Your iPod warranty is expired
You don’t want to pay any service charges
You are prepared to buy a new one
You can’t accept the re-sell value of your broken iPod
Rather than leave your iPod as paper-weight or throw it away.
You can try the following, but again, only do it as your last resort and at your own risk.
Warning !!!! – It may or may not manage to solve your problem, and with a risk that you may further damage your iPod, which end up as an expensive paper weight or you need to pay more higher repairing cost. Therefore, please re-consider again whether you want to try the next level
Last Resort Level
1. . Disconnecting the Hard Drive and battery inside the iPod – Warning !! Your iPod warranty will be waived once you open the iPod.
In Hong Kong there are some electronic shops offering an iPod service for Sad iPod, the first thing they do is to open up the iPod’s case and disconnecting the battery and the Hard Drive from the main board of the iPod. Wait for 5-10 minutes and reconnecting them back. The reason behind which I can think of is to do a fully reset of a processor of the iPod. In case you want do it itself and you believe that you are good on fixing the electronics devices and have experience to deal with small bits of electronic parts, then you can read the following of how to open the iPod case for battery and HDD replacement (with Quicktimes)
http://eshop.macsales.com/tech_center/index.cfm?page=Video/directory.html
2.Press the reset button on the Hard Drive inside the iPod – Suggestion from Kill8joy
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2438774#2438774
Have I tried these myself? No, I am afraid to do it myself as I am squeamish about tinkering inside electronic devices, I have few experiences that either I broke the parts (which are normally tiny or fragile) or failed to put the parts back to the main case. Therefore, I agree with suggestion to have it fixed by a Pro.
2. Do a search on Google and some topics on this discussion forum about “Sad iPod”
Exclamation point and folder and nothing else
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=3597173#3597173
Exclamation point and folder and nothing else
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2831962#2831962
What should I do with my iPod? Send it or keep it?
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=469080&tstart=0
Strange error on iPod (probably death)
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=435160&start=0&tstart=0
Sad Face on iPod for no apparent reason
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=336342&start=0&tstart=0
Meeting the Sad iPod icon
http://askpang.typepad.com/relevanthistory/2004/11/meeting_thesad.html#comment-10519524
Sad faced iPod, but my computer won’t recognize it?
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2236095#2236095
iPod Photo: unhappy icon + warranty question
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2233746#2233746
4th Gen iPod Users - are we all having the same problem?
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=2235623#2235623
Low Battery, and clicking sounds
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2237714#2237714
Sad faced iPod, but my computer won’t recognize it
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2242018#2242018
Sad iPod solution
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=412033&tstart=0
Re: try to restore ipod and it says "can't mount ipod"
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=443659&tstart=30
iPod making clicking noise and is frozen
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=2420150#2420150
Cant put it into disk mode
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=3786084#3786084
I think my iPod just died its final death
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=3813051
Apple logo & monochrome battery stay
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=3827167#3827167
My iPod ism’t resetting and isn’t being read by my computer
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=4489387#4489387
I am not suggesting that you should follow as well, but just read them as your reference. You are the person to make the call.
Finally, I read a fair comments from dwb, regarding of slapping the back of the iPod multiple times
Quote “This has been discussed numerous times as a 'fix'. It does work, at least for a while. In fact I remember using the same basic trick to revive Seagate and Quantam drives back in the mid to late 1980's. Why these tiny hard drives go bad I don't know - could be the actuator gets stuck in place or misaligned. Could be the platter gets stuck or the motor gets stuck. 'Stiction' was a problem for drives back in the 80's. Unfortunately the fix can cause damage to the platter so we temporarily fix one problem by creating another. But I know of two instances where a little slap onto the table revived the iPods and they are still worked a year or more later.”UnQuote

Error: The disc cannot be read from or written to. HELP!

We have two new Video iPods in the family... when we try to update them, we get the message: The disc cannot be read from or written to. We also cannot delete/edit the songs on the iPod. When we check certain songs to put on one iPod, but not the other, EVERY song is added -even with "only update checked files".
Is there away to create two Libraries -one for each iPod- and fix the Updateing problem? please!

Hi all,
I am sorry to report that I too have this same disc error problem when syncing my iPod to my iTunes library. I take no comfort in knowing that I am one of many that have this same error. I checked on the iPod lounge forum and I just couldn't count the number of users that had the same problem. There are just so many!
I too have tried "5 r's" and I have also tried using a few "s" words and others...lol.
It seems like there is no "fix" for this problem but I will say this: If there is no solution, then I will no longer be buying iPods. This is my third iPod that I have purchased. Which makes my Apple investment near the thousand dollar mark. That is way too much money spent to not have a functioning music player. I will be switching to another player to see if the grass is greener on the other side.
I have been most dissappointed with this error and I will not be "recycling" this iPod for ten percent off of my next iPod purchase.

Songs won't update. Error message "can not be read from or written to"

Right, so maybe someone can help me.
I've had my Nano since Christmas and have never encountered any problems with it until recently.
Whenever I try and update my iPod (or my husband's for that matter) I get the error message: Attempting to copy to the disk "Gatsby" (name of my iPod) failed. The disk could not be read from or written to"
Sometimes one or two songs will work, and then I'll get the message. If I try again another few songs will work and I'll get the message again.
I have tried everything I can think of.
I have tried resetting my iPod. I've tried reinstalling iPod Updater and iTunes. I've tried restarting the computer. I've tried restoring the iPod to factory settings. And I still have the same problem.
I tried calling Apple Support but they weren't able to help me much. So maybe someone here has an idea. PLEASE HELP!
Since I've restored the iPod I no longer have any songs on it. I only have the few that have managed to copy inbetween attempted updates. My poor little iPod is useless until I can fix this problem.
I have iTunes v6.0.4 and iPod Updater v1.1.1 (the update from 2006-03-23)
Please help!
Thanks!
iMac G5 1.8GHz PowerPC Mac OS X (10.4.6)

Well, I know my operating system is up to date. I know iTunes is up to date. I know iPod Updater is up to date.
I don't think it's a damaged music file, because it doesn't hang on one certain song. It manages to update a few, then I get the error, if I try and update again, it does a few more songs then I get the error again. I've updated dozens of times with the same selection of songs and I've never had a problem.
I tried resetting the iPod. I tried restoring it.
Still hasn't helped.
Someone suggested using fsck from my terminal, but it came back saying everything appeared to be okay. But, my songs are all on my external hard drive, does that make a difference?
It's never seemed to matter before.
I don't know what else to try.
I don't think it's a problem with the iPod itself. My husband's iPod is doing the same thing, which makes me wonder if it isn't my computer, or perhaps a problem with iTunes or the iPod Updater.
I've tried using a different cable, and different ports, but I still have the same problem.
Any ideas?

Shuffle "cannot be read from or written to" error - FIXED

To fix the error that occurs when we try to update or copy music from iTunes and that returns the message error -50 and/or 1481, we have to set the "Enable Disk Use" - at iPod settings tab on iTunes - as marked.
OK, but this error occurs cause iTunes - when still running - unmount the iPod device (and I don't know why - hello Apple!); so, the time that we have to apply this setting is very shortly.
So, we have to keep the iPod device mounted putting there a file, as a Notepad file, and open it when iTunes is closed and iPod device is mounted (plug in the iPod - iTunes will open -, remove the hardware (iPod), quit iTunes, plug in iPod again and open the file on iPod disk). Now we can open iTunes and set iPod as told before.

Thanks for this thread. I kinda followed what you meant, but just in case anyone else is having any problems, here are the steps I took to 'fix' my shuffle 2nd gen:
Here's what actually happens:
Quote:
* windows recognises ipod straight away as a removable hdd
* itunes opens and reads the ipos
* seconds later, windows ejects the drive on its own.
* itunes thinks it's still there
* any attemps to update anything via itunes, fail.
Here's the fix:
Quote:
* create a new blank text file in notepad. Save it to your desktop. ctrl-c the file, ready to paste it somewhere else.
* Open my computer, so you can see a list of your drives
* plug the ipod in
* watch for the ipod drive appearing, and QUICKLY open it, and ctrl-v the blank text file.
* QUICKLY open the blank text file by double-clicking it. This will prevent windows from ejecting the ipod drive, because it's in use.
* whilst in itunes, alter the preferences for the ipod... you need to 'enable disk use', as it's disabled by default.
* save the changes, delete the text file if you wish, and exit itunes.
All fixed.

Shuffle "cannot be read from or written to" error FIXED - windows xp

This is a quote from another post, I'm not taking any credit for this fix. However, I spent HOURS trying to fix my Shuffle 2nd Gen. I did the 5R's, no help there, absolutely worthless. Even trying to Restore the shuffle, it would error. Basically every time I tried to communicate to the Shuffle, it would hang. Eventually I'd get the "cannot read or write" error, and sometimes that was error -50, sometimes 1418, sometime no code, just the "cannot read or write" error.
On to the fix - FYI at the bottom where it says check "enable disk use" - mine is checked, but with all the room still reserved for songs. i.e., 0 meg for disk use. Also, the format I did was without the "quick format" box checked.
Here is the quote: (formatted to be easier to follow)
Alright, this is what I did, my only fix.
1) Disconnect the iPod from the computer.
2) Go to "start> right click my computer> manage> services and applications> services>
3) Click iPod service> click stop service."
4) Connect the ipod and it should show up in my computer.
5) Format it so all content is gone. (ohno: right click, select format, uncheck "quick format" and click OK - should take just a couple seconds to format)
6) Go back to "start> right click my computer>
manage> services and applications> services> click iPod service> click Start service. This should have the service running again.
7) Open iTunes and connect the shuffle. When it says to automatically fill it (the window that pops up) dont unclick it, proceed so the shuffle autofills. Before it stops autofilling, quickly go to the settings tab. Then, scroll down to where it says "enable disk use" and check the box, then hit apply. Don't worry about the slider position for disk space, mine has worked with this all the way to the left with 0 meg for disk use.
8) Done.
9) How to use: drag and drop songs / playlists in iTunes onto your iPod within the iTunes device list, just hit the eject button next to your iPod device when done.
All management done from iTunes, for some reason formatting via windows and then enabling disk use cleans up the Shuffle, and allows windows to communicate with it. Mine works 100% now.
Only thing is I have not tried the Autofill commands as I don't use them. I drag and drop what I want onto the iPod and it immediately updates. Finally.

I'm a new iPod owner and have spent the past 3 days researching solutions to this problem. Through research and testing I came to the same conclusion. I fixed mine using a slightly different solution:
I took the Shuffle to a local Apple store, had them enable disk usage, brought it home and everything works perfectly now.
The key to the problem is this: When you plug in the iPod, Windows sees it as a mass storage device. As soon as the iPod system service kicks in, it acquires the mass storage device and disallows Windows from seeing it.

Work around "cannot copy to disk.....cannot be read from or written to.

While copying large files(movies or large amounts of music)to the iPod touch the error message" disk cannot be read from or written to" appears. Here is a work around for the failure.
1. Run the latest version of iTunes and connect the iPod. Perform the following after the failure (allow one failure to occur and repeat this after each occurence) This is only good for one movie or one large grouping of music files. Eject the iPod and allow 30 seconds after the plug is pulled before reattaching the plug to the iPod. Once the summary window appears you are ready to start.
2. In the movie tab behind the summary remove SYNC Movies check from the box.
In the Music tab remove the SYNC Music check from the box.
3. On the summary tab uncheck "manually manage music" in the options section. It will ask if you are sure, choose OK. Click "Apply" in the bottom right corner. Allow the iPod to try to SYNC... a message will appear explaining that there is not enough disk space, choose "OK".
4. Check "manually manage music" in the options section. Click "Apply" in the bottom right corner.
5. Drag and drop the selection of music or the movie over to the iPod icon on the left side of the screen under "Devices". The transfer should start and the progress graphic will start in the upper status window.
***I have only been able to move/ copy one movie at a time and one large music selection. When attempting the second transfer the error message returns and you have to start the process over. I tryed restoring, updating iTunes, different cables, updating XP, different USB ports, countless system restarts and threatening to smash it if it didn't work. I spoke with APPLE Tech support and they are aware of the problem and should be attempting to correct it. My iPod is @ its default settings. I have had no problems with single music files transfering but I have had it fail on as little as three in a group. Good Luck and I hope this helps.

Here is some more info on this issue. I've been having the same problem - I've tried disconnecting all other USB devices, making sure to plug into the back-side USB 2.0 port, I even went and bought a PCI card 2-port USB hub and tried that, but could never sync movies or multiple songs (usually less than 50 songs). Today, I was able to transfer 2 movies and a TV show and about 100 songs and the one thing that was different was that I was doing a video conversion in the background with FFMPEG (taking up about 90% CPU), so iTunes only had about 10% CPU while doing the sync.
Unfortunately, as I started typing this message, a third movie transfer just failed with the "cannot copy to disk..." read/write error. Oh well, just thought I'd get the info out, as this is an exteremely frustrating issue, and hopefully the more info we have we'll eventually be able to figure it out.

Disk cannot be read from or written to ERROR

my 3rd generation iPod will sync with iTunes BUT will load only one third of the songs before it freezes and reads and error saying "Disk cannot be read from or written to". It is not full and still says 5.82GB free.. I have used iPod Updater to retore and update the software but it doesn't help. After it has loaded the songs up to a certain amount (Same exact # of songseven if I wipe it out and re-sync), then when I connect it, if just freezes the iPod and my mac.

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=301267

Ipod cannot be Read from or written to...help

so i have a brand new just out of the box ipod shuffle, i tried to sync it on itunes, syncing takes forever and i get a message that says "the ipod cannot be read from or written to" , I've read some other discussions and i think that my ipod is automatically syncing whenever i plug it in, not giving me enough time to put my songs on it, and then itunes thinks its disconnected by that time. Please help, ive already tried to reinstall itunes, but it did not work

Hi confusedguy,
Have you seen the suggestions from these two articles, regarding that error message you are getting?
"Disk cannot be read from or written to" when syncing iPod
iTunes displays a -50 error or "Disk cannot be read from or written to" when syncing iPod
-Kylene

HT4236 Syncing photos using iTunes in windows revealed this error message "iPad Jayvee cannot be synced because it cannot be read from or written to ." Please advise asap how to resolve the issue. Thanks!

Please advise how to resolve error message - cannot be synced because it cannot be read from or written to.

Hello Janet,
I would recommend this article named 'Disk cannot be read from or written to' when syncing iPod or 'Firmware update failure' error when updating or restoring iPod found here http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1207
Outdated operating system software
Make sure you have the latest updates for your operating system, which may include improvements for device connections. For example, many USB and FireWire improvements have been included in Windows Service Packs.Check for Mac OS X downloads. Check for Windows updates.
Computer needs updates
Make sure you have the latest updates available for your specific computer model (or components for home-built PCs). These are usually available for download on the support website for the maker of the PC (or component). Many USB updates are listed as "Intel chipset" or just "chipset" updates on PC manufacturer's support and download websites.
Software interference
Some software can interfere with iTunes, making it unable to write files to your iPod. Think about what software you have installed, and try disabling any add-ons that might be interfering with iTunes. Check your suspected software's documentation or contact the software maker if you need assistance with disabling the application. Out-of-date or incorrectly configured security software frequently causes this issue. See these steps for identifying and troubleshooting third-party security software.
Damaged files
If one of your music files or photos is damaged, iTunes may display one of these errors when transferring that file to the iPod. If you identify a file that is causing the error, try deleting that file and reimporting it from a backup file or from the original source. You may be able to repair files by repairing the disk (see the solutions in the next section).
Unregistered .dll files (Windows)
Malware or other software may cause an issue with the digital signing of Windows XP drivers. First try restoringthe iPod using the latest version of iTunes.. If you are unable to restore it or the symptom reappears, follow the steps in this document.
Damaged disk structure
These errors can also appear if the format of your computer's hard drive or your iPod disk is damaged.
To repair your computer's hard disk—Mac OS X users, read this article for instructions. Windows users, search the Help system in Windows for chkdsk to get more information on checking and repairing the disk structure.
To repair an iPod disk—Restore the iPod or iPod shuffle using the latest version of iTunes.
Warning: Be sure to back up your data before restoring an iPod. The restore process cannot be undone. All of your songs and files will be deleted.
Corrupt iPod photo Cache
If you're getting the error when transferring photos to an iPod photo, try deleting the iPod photo Cache and then starting the photo sync again.
Lost connection
Make sure that the connections from your computer to the iPod are snug and do not wiggle or come loose during transfers. For example, if you use the wrong size dock for your iPod, it can put strain on the connectors and cause a bad connection. See these articles for more information:
Learn about iPod Universal Dock
iPod Dock: Specifications
Conflict with third-party hardware
Third-party USB or FireWire devices may also interfere with iTunes' ability to communicate with your iPod. Remove all USB and FireWire devices except the keyboard and mouse before reconnecting your iPod to the computer.
Bad hardware
Hardware failure or non-compliant hardware can cause these errors. This could be an issue with iPod hardware or with the cable or dock you're using, but more often it's an issue with the USB or FireWire card or interface in your computer. Some USB and FireWire interfaces just don't work very well. If you isolate the issue to the USB or FireWire interface in your computer, you may want to try a different port, get the computer serviced, or replace the card or interface with a better one.
If you isolate the issue to an Apple-supplied cable or dock, or the iPod itself, you can get it serviced here.
Take care,
Sterling

Spinwheel when syncing, unable to sync photos, error message "the disk cannot be read from or written to" ... please help!

spinwheel when syncing, unable to sync photos, error message "the disk cannot be read from or written to" ... please help!

Everytime I try to sync my photos to iPad or my iPhone. The sync freezes for a whilie then comes back with "the disk cannot be read from or written to". I have already exported photo library from iPhoto and readded the photos.

IPod disc "cannot be read from or written to" error

I have a 60gb color iPod which was just replaced by Apple due to an unrelated issue. The replacement iPod has trouble synching to my G5 tower via the USB cable. in iTunes, I get the error "Attempting to copy to the disk <iPod Name> Failed. The disc cannot be read from or written to." This occurs twice, once while iTunes tries copying music over, and then again when it tries copying photos over. Some of the songs incrementally copy over (maybe six or eight at a time), but I have thosuands of songs, so obviously this isn't practical. I have undertaken the steps described in http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=301267 with no success.
Meanwhile, in the system.log, I'm seeing error messages as follows:
Feb 27 21:59:23 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 21:59:27 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 21:59:27 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 21:59:55 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 21:59:56 Orwell kernel[0]: jnl: close: flushing the buffer cache (start 0x8b400 end 0x8e600)
Feb 27 22:00:15 Orwell kernel[0]: jnl: journal start/end pointers reset! (jnl 0x1a4dd7c; s 0x8e600 e 0x8e600)
Feb 27 22:00:41 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 22:00:42 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 22:00:46 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 22:00:50 Orwell kernel[0]: jnl: close: flushing the buffer cache (start 0xd8400 end 0xdb600)
Feb 27 22:17:59 Orwell kernel[0]: jnl: journal start/end pointers reset! (jnl 0x1a4dd7c; s 0xdb600 e 0xdb600)
Feb 27 22:18:22 Orwell kernel[0]: disk1s3: data underrun.
Feb 27 22:19:02 Orwell kernel[0]: USBF: 11618.936 AppleUSBEHCI[0x197e800]::Found a transaction past the completion deadline on bus 75, timing out!
The "data underrun" line appears in the log just as iTunes displays the previously mentioned error dialogue box - they appear connected.
I am running OS X 10.4.5, iTunes 6.0.3, and the iPod is running 1.2.1 of the firmware. I have taken my iPod into the local Apple store, and the iPod syncs just fine with the in-store systems, both over USB and firewire. I just have the USB cable at home.
Help with troubleshooting would be appreciated.

Thank you so much! This is greatly appreciated. SERIOUSLY, man. How long have I been searching for this? And it would be so easy to just plug it up on that that http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=301267 page. Hello, apple. Please do this.
I hope your hometown throws you a banquet or a parade. At the very least, buy yourself a cookie or something.
mac Mac OS X (10.4.5)

When syncing iToiuch I receive an error "disk cannot be read from or written to".

When syncing iToiuch I receive an error "disk cannot be read from or written to". Sync fails at step 3 of 6.

Sounds like a hardware problem - a bad disk or, at the very least, bad sectors on the disk in the iPod.
There probably is not much you can do. You can try putting the iPod into disk mode and check the drive using Windows:
Open My Computer
Right click the iPod
Choose Properties
Go to the Tools tab
Click the Check now button
Windows may or may not be able to salvage the drive. You do not say if you can still use the iPod without errors; there is the possibility that you will lose data on the iPod during the repair.

Error Message "Shuffle cannot be read from or written to"

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