The iPod "iPod" could not be restored because it is busy

My 20g ipod started giving me trouble a few weeks ago after I loaded some post-Christmas purchases. It wouldn't load the last few songs, and it was half-empty, so capacity wasn't an issue.
I next tried to restore the iPod, but my mac mini then seized up, and the restart hung, so I had to do a hard restart.
Upon restart, the iPod was obviously now corrupted, with only a half-completed restore, so I tried again.
This time, and every time since, I get the following error message: The iPod "iPod" could not be restored because it is busy
So, I next followed the 5 R's, to no avail.
Disk Utility gives me the error Disk Erase failed Disk Erase failed with the error: Input/Output error
I also tried security erase, and while it starts with the overwrite, it eventually kicks out of the process with another I/O error.
Today, I downloaded iTunes 7.6 with the hope that it would fix this issue, as it has been surfacing in discussions pretty commonly. I thought this was reasonable, because of some difficulties with iTunes after the release of the iPhone were solved upon the next release of iTunes.
Unfortunately, I am facing the exact same situation.
There is one additional step I was able to take by trial and error, and one further step I am considering.
When I originally searched this topic, I came upon a "diagnostic mode" fix that's supposed to be accessed only by the iPod nano.
Using this mode, I was able to run several tests, and ram checks out, and one of the two disk tests come back fine.
Since I don't know what the alphabet test results mean, this was about all I was able to gather.
I attemmpted to use the diagnostic mode reset, but the problem continued.
My final thought, aside from waiting for a further iTunes update, was to dig out a third-party disk utility I have here somewhere and see if that will erase the iPod.
Any suggestions out there?

I was able to solve this by (warning, this will void your warranty) taking the iPod apart, very carefully. Being careful not to separate the cables inside, place a folded business card on the hard disk, and place the metal half back on.
Do a Google search if you don't believe me.
Oh, and for the gent from Apple that removed the post containing URL with pictures of this fix, I do NOT receive any cash, complensation, self esteem or other recompense or good feeling from posting this fix, or directing people to search for it.

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What do I do when I get the message "the iPod could not be restored because it is busy?

Hi...I'm trying to restore my iPod to the orignal factory settings, but keep receiving the message that the iPod could not be restored because it is busy.

Since it seems that you will have to erase the contents of your iPod anyway (restoring it will do that), then I would hit the problem with a bit larger hammer. Connect the iPod to your computer, and if iTunes opens automatically and shows you the iPod summary page, then disable the option to open iTunes automatically when the iPod is connected. Apply the change, if necessary, then quit iTunes. Open Disk Utility (Applications/Utilities/Disk Utility) and select the iPod from the list of disks in the sidebar. Click the Erase tab, and enter a name for your iPod. Uncheck the option for installing OS 9 drivers, and choose Mac OS Extended (not journaled) as the disk format. Click the Erase button to erase the iPod. Quit Disk Utility when the process has completed successfully. The iPod should now mount on your Desktop as a generic white-colored removable disk icon.
Now, launch iTunes, and your iPod should be recognized as a new device. You should now be able to restore it and sync it with your iTunes library.
P.S. Yes, I have done this with my own iPod .

Im trying to update my ipod 3g 4.2.1 to ios 5.0.1.When I try to update,itunes says that 4.2.1is the lastest sofware for my ipod.I also tried to do it manually(shift restor)itunes says that the"ipod could not be restore because the fimwire isnot compatible

Hello, Im trying to update my ipod 3g 4.2.1 to ios 5.0.1.When I try to update,itunes says that 4.2.1is the lastest sofware for my ipod.I also tried to do it manually(shift+restor)itunes says that the"ipod could not be restore because the fimwire isnot compatible" I need some help on this.

The messages are saying you have a 2G iPOd. Those canonly go to 4.2.1. Apple only made 32 and 64 GB 3G iPOd. A 32 can be either. To further identify yours:
Identifying iPod models
Enter SN hee:
Apple - Support - Check Your Service and Support Coverage

The iPod could not be restored because the firmware file was corupt.

What does that mean and how do I restore my iPod when that is all it says everytime I try to?

I'm having similar problems. I was able to download the update using my sisters ipod, but any time i try to install it on mine, i get a message saying firmware file not found. I currently have the most recent updater, the one before 1.2. Any help Apple?

IPod could not be restored because the firmware file could not be found

Initial problem was no audio and skipping through songs at a rate of about 1 song per second.
Tried the 5 R's and that didn't help.
Installed iTunes 7 and then it wouldn't recognize the nano. Followed Apple's instructions when iPod not recognized, including uninstalling iTunes, uninstalling latent update installers, deleting the iTunes directory, clearing the recycle bin, deleting temp files, etc. Then reinstalled iTunes 7,
Plugged in my nano and Got the message, newer version of iPod software available, update software (version installed was 1.1.1 and newer version available was 1.2)? Clicked ok and that was the start of my troubles. That process failed and suggested that I restore to factory defaults (not exactly what I wanted to do, having to reload my songs, but went along).
Did a restore to factory settings and now get the message
The iPod could not be restored because the firmware file could not be found.
Anyone got any ideas how to update the firmware? I'm hopeful that a file can be downloaded to do this rather than sending in the nano to have it updated.
<opinion on>
After an hour of updating software and a couple of hours of reading the forums looking for the answer, my eyes hurt, it's 2:30am, and I'm frustrated to the point of throwing this in the trash.
My kids have a shuffle and a mini and I've updated software on both with no problems before. If I realized I would have to become a system admin for iPods, I would never have invested.
<opinion off>

Welcome to Apple Discussions!
Take a look at these two articles. The error messages are not the same, but they may help...
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304309
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=301267
If not, post back.
btabz

HT1212 I followed all directions to restore my ipod (because I forgot password) but get a warning from Itunes that says "ipod could not be restored because this device isn't eligible for the requested rebuild. What do I do to unlock my ipod touch 4 g

I followed all directions to restore my ipod (because I forgot password) but get a warning from Itunes that says "ipod could not be restored because this device isn't eligible for the requested rebuild. What do I do to unlock my ipod touch 4 g

iOS: Restore error 3194 or 'This device isn't eligible for the requested build'

The iPod could not be synced because this computer is no longer authorized for purchased items that are on this iPod.

Full message that pops up
"The iPod could not be synced because this computer is no longer authorized for purchased items that are on this iPod.
To authorize this computer for items purchased from iTunes Store, choose Store > Authorize This Computer."
I am unable to sync my music, applications, movies, etc. to my iPod touch. The only way I am able to bypass the message that pops out when I try to sync (the one in the title) is by clicking "Apply" instead of "Sync". To do this, I make changes to Apps, Music, or Movies (...) and the buttons "Revert" and "Apply" will replace the button "Sync".
My problem is most likely not due to using many accounts because I only have one and it is the only one that I use. I do not share accounts with my family members. Still, I have tried everything here, nothing has worked for me. Since I don't often listen to Podcasts, I have deleted them from my iPod. I have no idea why I am unable to sync and no one seems to have the same problem as me.
Thank you for your help in advance.
Details
iPod touch, 5th generation
iOS 8.1.2
iTunes 12.0.1.26
Windows 8
Purchases
Pre-ordered album "Froot" purchased from the account that is authorized to my computer
Podcast "Not Too Deep with Grace Helbig" also purchased from the account that is authorized to my computer

Try backing up to iTunes and restoring from that backup

The iPod could not be updated because the firmware file was corrupt.

So i kept having this problem in this thread here: http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1226490&tstart=255
I decided that maybe doing a Restore on my iPod would maybe sort it out however i got that message "The iPod could not be updated because the firmware file was corrupt." when trying to restore. I then searched apple and found out that deleting the 'iPod Software Updates' folder would sort it out, it didn't.
Now what's happening is when i try to restore it comes up saying i have to download this iPod Software 1.2.1 for iPod so it downloads and then when it's finished i'm still getting the error message saying the firmware file is corrupt.
What can i do now? any help appreciated please.

this article actually sorted this problem out for me: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304996
just to let you know

I'm having trouble with my Ipod- I tried to restore it but keep getting a message - the ipod could not be restored. an unknown error occurred(1413)

I'm having trouble with my Ipod- I tried to restore it but keep getting a message - the ipod could not be restored. an unknown error occurred(1413)
Mt computer has been freezing up on me lately and I think it messed up my Ipod when it quit right in the middle of downloading and got shut off.

That's because you jailbroke your phone. You can't get help here.

"The iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (1436)."

My 3rd gen. iPod Nano was down because I accidentally disconnected the iPod from the PC without using the "removing the hardware safely" function.
So, I reset the Nano then replug the it to the PC. When I was trying to restore the Nano as the iTunes required, it says *"The iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occurred (1436)."*
So, I also re-format my Nano and also reinstall the iTunes to the latest 7.7 version. Also restarted my PC several times. But the same message still appears when I tried to restore the Nano.
Could anyone please help me get out of this problem?!?! I want my iPod fixed so bad. Thanks~
Message was edited by: AngryMe

I'm in the same boat. Tonight, i disconnected my ipod nano from the pc without ejecting it. And Now my Ipod screen just has the connected symbol on the screen all the time. I can't turn it off or access any of my music!
I've also re-installed iTunes, but it didn't make any difference. iTunes doesn't recognise my Ipod when it's connected to the computer.
I've only had it 2 days! God i don't know what to do! I think i'll have to pay for online support or repair. I hope it's not too expensive!
Sorry i can't help you. But i just needed to vent to someone. I'll keep you posted if i manage to get my ipod working again!
Emma x

The ipod could not be sync because the ipod could not be found on the network

I plugged my ipod touch (4 gen) into my computer to sync and charge and itunes will not sync it any more. I the the error: the ipod could not be sync because the ipod could not be found on the network. It says it backed up on 11/4/13 which was just 5 days ago, but it won't let me back up or restore now at this point. It will charge the battery but that is all. Anyone know how to correct this problem?

Are yo set up to sync via USB vice wifi?
Try:
- Reset the iOS device. Nothing will be lost
Reset iOS device: Hold down the On/Off button and the Home button at the same time for at
least ten seconds, until the Apple logo appears.
- Reboot the computer
- Try another USB port and cable
- Reset all settings
Go to Settings > General > Reset and tap Reset All Settings.
All your preferences and settings are reset. Information (such as contacts and calendars) and media (such as songs and videos) aren’t affected.
- Restore from backup. See:
iOS: How to back up
- Restore to factory settings/new iOS device.
If still problem, make an appointment at the Genius Bar of an Apple store since it appears you have a hardware problem.
Apple Retail Store - Genius Bar

Am trying to update iPod that has iOS 2.2.1 to iOS 4.2 but I am getting the following error message, the iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occured (-1).

Hi , I am trying to update iPod that has iOS 2.2.1 to iOS 4.2 but I am getting the following error message, "the iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occured (-1)." I would appreciate if anyone could let me know what the problem is and if it is possible how to fix it? Thanks

Error -1
Attempt to restore your iOS device two more times. If the issue is still unresolved, the device may need service.
The "device may need service" means a hardware problem. In that case make an appointment at the Genius Bar of an Apple store.
Apple Retail Store - Genius Bar

"The iPod could not be synced because this computer is no longer authorised for purchased items"

Whenever I try to sync my iPod to iTunes, this error comes up:
"The iPod could not be synced because this computer is no longer authorised for purchased items that are on this iPod."
I have already tried every solution suggested here: iTunes repeatedly prompts to authorize computer to play iTunes Store purchases

I found the solution to this problem
the apple service helped me actually
the best and the esiest way is to solve this problem :
create a new account (as an administator recomended)
Bonjour servises must be enabled ( go to control panel > administartive tools> sevices> Bounjour services (change the category to large icons if you dont see administartive tools )
install itunes
sign in
authorize
SYNC
it must sync normally
but if the meesage pops up that points on a particular items that could not be synced ( to ur itunes because you are not authorized for this items ) REMOVE THEM
creating a new user account shows the items wich dont let you sync your iPhone
after you REMOVE those **** items that were not authorised , you can go to your old user account and SYNC it as old kind time
was having this problem 2 weeks , and nothing helped except this was. not deleting the SC Info folder, now copying apple folder to some other mobile divce folder
REMEMBER the problem is in your iPhone , it is about the items that are in your iPhone
Thanks to Apple service
for anyone who needs othe heple you r welcome to ask
will hepl you with a pleassure cause i know how I felt this days:)

HT201210 Trying to sync my iPod, but unable to sync due to "The iPod could not be synced because this computer is no longer authorized for purchased items that are on this iPod." Please help

Hi all,
I tried to update my iPod but it stated "The iPod could not be synced because his computer is no longer authorized for purchcased items that are on this iPod. To authorize this computer for items purchased from the iTunes Store, choose Store > Authorize This Computer"
Please advice. Thanks!

iTunes repeatedly prompts to authorize computer to play iTunes Store purchases
iTunes Store: Authorize or deauthorize your Mac or PC

"The iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occurred. Error 1603" Help!

So I had recently jail broken my iPod(2G, 8MG), which was stupid of me and I regret it, but I kept having issues with it so I manually erased everything off my device from the settings straight on my iPod, then my iPod refused to go passed the apple logo when it restarted.
I have updated my iTunes, I have put my iPod in DFU mode multiple times and have tried restoring it and it doesn't work, then I press "shift" (I work on a Windows) and then click restore and my downloads file comes down and I click on the firmware I downloaded which is 4.2.1 I believe. It starts to restore, then after around 5 minutes I get the error message "The iPod could not be restored. An unknown error occured. Error 1603."
I'd love for some help, I'm starting to get frustrated and I do not have the money to buy a new iPod.

Yu said: Jailbroken
Jailbreaking voids the Apple warranty and also means that you will not get any support from Apple, including from this Apple forum. Jailbreaking can't be discussed in this Apple forum.
Unauthorized modification of iOS has been a major source of instability, disruption of services, and other issues

The iPod "iPod" could not be restored because it is busy

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