Ipod not read by Windows or itunes

Question

I have an older ipod clickwheel. It worked beautifully until 10/15/08 when my computer ("computer A") automatically installed Windows Vista updates. When I connected my ipod to the computer's USB port, I got a nasty whirring sound and it did not appear in Windows or itunes. I toggled hold switch, reset and disconnected. I then connected it to my laptop ("computer B") and it worked perfectly. Now laptop has automatically installed Windows updates (Windows 2003, not Vista) and the ipod is doing same thing on that computer -- endless whirring, frozen up, not recognized by Windows or itunes. When I reset my ipod, it works fine, but I can't update any of my music/podcasts because it won't sync. It's forever stuck on 10/15/08 content. What should I try next? Thanks

Answer 1

erfva,
If you can get the iPod recognized in iTunes, you can always attempt to restore it: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1339
However, if it's not recognized in iTunes you can attempt to format it using Disk Mode, using your Windows OS (just like you would format any drive). Here is a good article on what to do if the iPod is not seen in iTunes: http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1373?viewlocale=en_US
Unfortunately beyond that, especially if it's making whirring or clicking sounds, it can be a hardware failure which would require service: http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1382
Hope this helps,
Raleigh