Multiple iPod 30GB issues

Hi folks,
I've been having some issues regarding my iPod video 30GB which I can't solve. I will explain what happened in details.
I had some files from my computer (Sony VAIO 40GB NTFS partitioned) in my iPod, about 25 GB (including songs). Then my girlfriend asked me to backup some data for her, which I did, and started all this turmoil.
Her computer is an Celeron, 20 GB FAT32, with low-powered USB ports. I copied her files (about 2 GB) into the iPod, and shortly after a strange glitch happened. It was still connected to her computer when the colors were gone. It entered a black & white-colored mode, and the folder icon showed up. It wouldn't disconnect, even though I kept ejecting it in both iTunes and WinXP.
Then I turned the PC off, ejecting the iPod in the process. After ejecting, I turned it on, but the folder icon was still there. Seconds later, I heard a clicking sound, and it turned itself off.
Afterwards, I plugged it onto my computer, and it was recognized by iTunes, but no files were detected. I opened on explorer, and opened it. The only folder was a hidden ipod_control 0 kb-sized. I checked the disk Properties and... the space was still being used. Which makes me think the files are there.
Now, there's where my problem resides: I need those files. I tried 4 of the 5 R's, but the 5th one will erase my files.
Here's the questions: is there any possibility of ever recovering those 27 GB? Are my files lost forever? Is iPod a reliable external HDD or things like these will keep happening?
For those wondering, the iPod didn't fall, nor suffered any shock of any kind shortly before these events.
Thanks for reading, I hope there'll be a way.
Regards,
Luciano.
Sony VAIO Windows XP

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Additional detail to the issue above: iTunes is not identifying the device correctly. It states its one ipod when the other is plugged in. And the existing library is for the other ipod, not the one with the device label.

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i will soon have two different ipods syncing to the same computer. how can i keep libraries separate so that my brother's music doesn't show up on my ipod and my music doesn't get synced to his?
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There are basically two methods for managing multiple iPods on one computer. See here:
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Method 2 - Create a playlist in iTunes for each iPod.
To make Method 2 work, connect one of your iPods, and click on it in the left-source panel.
Under the "Music" tab, and set your option for a specific playlist(s) under the "Sync Music" option.
Do the same with your other iPod; not connected at the same time as the other one, though.
For more details on this matter, check out Apple's Support article about it:
How to manage multiple iPods using one computer
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I have a family of 6, we each have various ipods (iphone, ipod, nano, shuffle, etc), and we have multiple computers -- some Mac and some PC.
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I'm looking for a simple and concise description of all of the factors. Any pointers?
If the iTunes world were simple we could simply each have our own music -- stored in one or more places in one or more accounts, on one or more computers. We would be able to share what we like, and put whatever subset we like on whichever device, manage any device from any account on any computer, etc... Of course this could be subject to licenses, but it should at least be possible to get a statement of what license restrictions exist.
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Let's see if we summarise the main points that will help you decide on a strategy:
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+ An iPod (but not an iPhone) in manual mode can accept tracks from multiple libraries.
+ iTunes can transfer (copy) purchases from an iPod into the library if authorised for the account used to purchase them.
+ Networks, memory sticks, portable hard drives, CD-R, DVD-D and iPod to PC transfer programs can be used to move other content between your libraries.
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+ For each computer, up to 5 accounts may be authorised on it at any one time.
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+ DRM content may be transfered to as many iPod's as you wish.
+ Most iTunes Store content is no longer subject to DRM, the main exceptions being Movies & Games/Applications.
+ iPods can be formated for use with either Mac or Windows. You can manage content on a Windows formatted iPod with either system, but the reverse is not the case. Firmware updates & restores must take place on the native system.
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+ The main database file of an iTunes library can only be opened by one process - multiple users on the same computer or over a network will lead to problems. Always close iTunes before switching profiles.
+ The media content folders can be simultaneously accessed by multiple accounts.
+ Automatic syncing has a number of advantages. You can update tag info. in iTunes knowing that when updated the iPod will recieve all the updates. Using playlists you can manage the content that will go on an iPod without having it connected. Ratings & playcounts can sync in both directions. All the content required to restore your iPod is in one location.
+ Manual management allows you to add content from whichever library you are connected to.
+ iTunes does not keep track of files moved or updated by other programs or instances of iTunes. If you share content folders then it is best to avoid the *Keep iTunes Media folder organised* option. When you update content on one machine, e.g. change a capitalisation or correct a spelling, other libraries will only notice the change if they access the file in some way, e.g. by playing it.
I'm sure there's more that I can't think of just now but that's a start.
*Personal Case history:*
Our family has an iPhone, a Nano, 3 Classics (old & new) and a 5th gen. I started by making most of the purchases on my account, putting the children's gift cards onto my store account for example, but two now have their own accounts. I manage most of the music in one main library that sits on a network. One child has a separate library which started as clone of the original and then had content that he dislikes removed... This means I can update his iPod at either his machine or mine although if I add any of his music I have to remember to update both libraries. When he uses iTunes on his computer he only sees the rock/blues/metal that he likes whereas the main library has everybodys content lumped together.
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"Alice's Tracks" is "Playlist is Music" + "Grouping contains Alice" + "Kind contains audio"
"Bob's Videos" is "Playlist is Music" + "Grouping contains Bob" + "Kind does not contain audio"
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etc.
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Hope that's given you some useful food for thought...
tt2

Can one pc have multiple ipods

I have a problem when trying to download/purchase new music, I receive three security questions to set for security purposes. After listing the questions and answers I click the continue or enter and I receive an error message that my answers could not be saved. This began after entering code from an itunes card recently purchased, I was able to purchase 1 song and then this issue came up.

Your title seems to have nothing to do with your post.
Is your question "can one pc have multiple ipods"? If so, then yes. You can sync as many ipods as you like to one comptuer.
Or is your question something to do with the body of your post?

Multiple iPods on a Windows XP Pro networked computer

The school where I work is having a problem with multiple ipods on Windows networked computers.
Several of our students have been given 5G ipods. Each student has a network logon with a fairly restrictive mandatory profile.
The idea is that each student could log on, plug in their iPod and download the appropriate podcasts for their needs.
Here is the issue. The first student to log in plugged the iPod in and did all the setup work.
The next student logged in to that same computer and plugged in his iPod. The machine recognized it as teh iPod fom the first student.
Anyone have ideas why this would be? I have read the Apple papers on using multiple ipods on one machine and one of their suggestions is to create multiple logons, so this whole issue should not even arise.
Thanks

The next student logged in to that same computer and plugged in his iPod. The machine recognized it as teh iPod fom the first student.
those symptoms can be produced by the issue described in the following document:
Windows confuses iPod with network drive or hard drive and may keep iPod from mounting or songs may seem to disappear
(if that is what is going on, it would be a "doubled" version of the basic problem. you get an initial drive letter confusion. a copy of the ipod_control folder from the first ipod ends up on one of the drives as a result of the drive letter confusion. when the second ipod is plugged in, you get a second drive letter confusion, the PC sees the rogue ipod_control folder on the drive ... and it interprets the drive as the first ipod.)

Multiple iPods on single PC not working on v7.0.2.16

At some later version of iTunes 6.x I bought my partner a Nano. Everthing worked fine, so my daughter got a Mini and I got a Video 30GB.
Each user is in a separate Windows user account and has their own iTunes library.
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One problem persists and it's a show stopper.
The Mini, the Nano and also a new Nano (Nano2) are not seen by iTunes.
Windows recognises them and mounts them as USB drives but the iTunes diagnostics shows that the iTunes "mount" is failing.
Looking at the Windows process list, I also see iPodService.exe running at 25-40% of CPU, after connecting the iPod. Once you have got iPodService.exe in this state, it doesn't respond to "stop" requests.
I've tried all manner of combinations over several hours (running through the 5 R's until I went mad!) and am now stuck with a bunch of useless iPods and irrate users who aren't being very complimentary about Apple!
My view is that there is a problem with iPodService.exe when it comes to multiple iPods on the same computer.
To support this, I clean installed iTunes 7.0.2.16 on a different PC, recently built with XP and all Windows updates - This was a first time install. The Nano2 worked first time and my other daughter (whose birthday present it was) is very happy. When I tried the Mini on the second PC I observed the USB mount and an iPodService.exe that chewed the CPU but did nothing else.
Has anyone else seen this and found a work around?
If not, how do we log support requests with Apple?
Are they good at fixing things like this?
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Try this:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93716
(particularly the "Restart the iPod Service" and "Disable conflicting System Services and Startup Items" steps
This may help also:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93499
Also try disconnecting all other USB/FireWire devices from the computer and have only one ipod physically connected at a time.
Good Luck!

-Frustrated : Multiple iPod Problems

I've been attempting to fix several issues with my girlfriend's iPod (30Gb 5gen) which I gave to her for her birthday, with no success.
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#2 In iTunes 7.0.1.8, and previous 7 versions, the update and restore buttons under the iPod summary are contantly greyed out, which makes it hard to update the iPod since i believe the firmware might be corrupted. Only renaming the ipod_control folder will allow the restore command to function, though it "cannot download the files" used to restore. (functional internet connection available)
#3 TV shows will not transfer to the iPod nor will video podcasts. These files I have both downloaded via iTunes. Not there is not tab under the iPod summary for this.
#4 The iPod will not display album art (even after restore) I don't know if there is a pref. box I can check for this or what? Even when I edit the ID3 tags to contain the album art, it is not displayed in the now playing screen of the iPod. (argh!)
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I had the Album Artwork problem, my 30GB Video would show the album artwork for the songs i put on there when i first got it but wen i would put new stuff on it and try to add the album artwork, it wouldn't show up on the iPod. My problem was fixed when i restored my iPod but since that doesnt seem to work for you, i dont know what to suggest for you to try. But it seems like all of your problem are coming from iTunes 7. I almost doubt there is any problem with your iPod. I would re download it again.
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ITunes shuts down when I connect my iPod 30gb

I desperately need help. Recently my computer crashes and I reformated it. So I had to reinstall iTunes. Ever since then iTunes shuts down when I connect my iPod 30gb. A windows error message appears saying iTunes has encountered a problem and needs to shut down. I am unable to update my iPod which drives me crazy. Somebody please help!
I browsed through some threads which have similar problems as I do, but I am unable to reply in any. It says: This topic has been archived - replies are not allowed.
There's this thread here about the problem I am facing but I doesn't seem to understand the solution to it.
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=1630589
Can somebody please help me?

A windows error message appears saying iTunes has encountered a problem and needs to shut down.
let's get a crash log from itunes, and send it to the Apple engineers for a look.
Typically, you'll need to configure Dr. Watson on your PC in order to generate crash logs. Windows start menu -> Run. Type in "cmd". Hit return. At the prompt in the command line window that comes up, type in
drwtsn32 -i
And hit return.
This will create crash logs in Documents And Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\Dr Watson\. There'll usually be a file in here called "drwtsn32.log"
prior to collecting the itunes crash log, delete any existing crash logs in there. (we want to make sure we send the correct crash log.)
Generate the crash, collect the crash log, and and send it as an attachment to this email address.
in the email to Roy, be sure to include the following information:
- A link to the thread on Apple Discussions where the issue is being discussed
- The username you are using in the thread
- The version of iTunes you are using or trying to use
- the version of Windows you are using (mention service packs)
- A concise description of the issue you are seeing
- The exact text of the error message you are seeing

Help! multiple ipod's on one PC

i'm sure i'm being really dumb but I need help. I have my ipod and itunes running fine on my PC. I have just got my girlfriend an ipod. Do i need to add a second version of itunes on my PC, i have tried but my computer won't let me. Please help

Hi all,
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This Apple lossless file that creates problem is paying fine in itune from the library and from the ipod...does anyone had a problem like this?
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How do I change that? How do I use my new Ipod Video instead of a Mini? I did install a new itunes upgrade. I tried looking for helpful hints, but none helped.
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Kari8 here. I couldn't remember my other account, so here's a new one.
Question: What if I connect iPod but don't see it in iTunes? (This is from Start Guide)
Answer: Try connecting iPod to another USB port on your computer.
My Complaint: I tried it, but I still don't see it. What could be wrong with my iPod 30GB Video? Or, rather, how can I fix this issue?

Multiple ipods belonging to multiple family members on one computer

How do I keep my family's libraries separate on one computer. I have been checking and unchecking songs each time I sync one of my children's ipods. It is driving me nuts. There has got to be a better way. My husbands library alone so far is 1300 songs. HELP!

When the iPods belong to different people, there are basically three ways of using multiple iPods on a computer and these involve:
a) Sharing a single iTunes library
b) Creating Multiple Libraries in a single user account
c) Creating multiple user accounts.
Note: When you are sharing an iTunes library, you don't have to set each iPod to update in the same manner, you can mix and match from the options below as each iPod has it's own update settings
Sharing a Library and/or User Account
If you want to share the one library, you can set either or all of the iPods so that they only get updated with only certain playlists (you can update from more than one if you wish): iPod - Syncing Music
Choosing the update option "Sync Music - Selected playlists" allows you to create a playlist specifically for the iPod and drag the tracks you want into it. If you tire of the list and want to change it, you just add or remove the songs you don't want. The ones you take out out remain in the library to be used some other time if you choose. You can read more about playlists at these links:
iTunes: Creating playlists of your favorite songs
How to create a Smart Playlist with iTunes
Or you can choose to update any or all of the iPods manually and just drag whatever content you want to them: Managing content manually on iPod and iPhone
Loading the iPod shuffle differs slightly but it can still be used with the others, for details have a look at this page: Adding songs to iPod shuffle - Windows
Multiple Libraries
It's also possible to have multiple libraries in a single account. To create or access a second (or more) library, hold down the Shift key in Windows when launching iTunes 7. In the resulting dialogue you will get the option to create a new library or navigate to the other Library.
Note: You can only have one Library open at a time and iTunes will default to the last library opened if you don't use the keyboard command to choose one. This can prove tricky when using multiple iPods, if you don't use the keyboard command you can risk syncing to the wrong library: Using multiple iTunes libraries -Windows
Separate User Accounts
Another option is to create a separate User account for each person on your PC or Mac. Different accounts by definition would give you completely separate libraries. Each account has it's own iTunes folder, Library and iTunes Music folder and you load it with CDs etc just as you did with your original one. The iPod can be set to update however the owner chooses, sync all, manual or sync specific playlists
I don't use Windows so I can't give you a step by step on that one, however I can point you to another web page which should help you out. You can read about Windows user accounts here:
Using Windows XP User Accounts
Create A New User Account In Vista

Multiple ipods on one computer

I have one PC running Windows 7 and 2 children each with their own ipod touch. How do I set things up to permit them to have seperate libraries and to be able to sync to their own library.

See:
How to use multiple iPods, iPads, or iPhones with one computer
What is the best way to manage multiple...: Apple Support Communities

Multiple iPod 30GB issues

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