Unable to update my Ipad 2 from version 7.1

Question

I have not been able to update from IOS 7.1, I originally tried to do it using WIFI, (also have Ipad mini this did it no problem).  Last week I received IOS 8.1 for loading (bearing in mind that I have tried unsuccessfully to load everything in between).  So I decided to try to do it via ITunes, after checking that I have the most recent ITunes loaded, I proceeded to follow the instructions.
When I connected the ipad to my PC, It prompted me to upload the newer version, so I just clicked on this.  and the bar at the top of the screen said that it would take 8 hours (even though we have a reasonably fast broadband system).  So I left it going, Needless to say it did not work.
I have tried all of the following on both my desktop which runs on windows 8.1, and also my laptop which runs on windows vista
I have read various responses within the community area and have tried the following
1. Removed  ITunes and reinstalled
2. Found the old backup file (in users/appdata/roaming/applecomputer/mobilesync/backup)on the computer and removed this from this area (both pc's state that this Ipad has not been backed up onto this computer, if that's the case, why is the backup file in place?
3.  Gone into store and made sure that the PC is authorised and re-entered this info.
4.  Transferred purchased apps to my iTunes library
5.  Shut down and rebooted both Ipad and PC
6.  Removed screen saver on computers and ipads, so that it does not cause the process to stall
We have no problem in carrying out a backup to icloud
Rather than try to run the full upload again I have just been trying to carry out a backup to PC, but despite doing each of the above at a different time, I have still not been able to succeed.
The only thing that I have not yet done, and I am seriously considering is to reset my ipad.  But even if I do, surely it will still try to do a backup to the computer, prior to it loading IOS 8.1

Answer 1

If you have an iPad 1, the max iOS is 5.1.1. For newer iPads, the current iOS is 6.1. The Settings>General>Software Update only appears if you have iOS 5.0 or higher currently installed.
iOS 5: Updating your device to iOS 5 or Later
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4972
How to install iOS 6
http://www.macworld.com/article/2010061/hands-on-with-ios-6-installation.html
iOS: How to update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4623
If you are currently running an iOS lower than 5.0, connect the iPad to the computer, open iTunes. Then select the iPad under the Devices heading on the left, click on the Summary tab and then click on Check for Update.
Tip - If connected to your computer, you may need to disable your firewall and anitvirus software temporarily.  Then download and install the iOS update. Be sure and backup your iPad before the iOS update. After you update an iPad (except iPad 1) to iOS 6.x, the next update can be installed via wifi (i.e., not connected to your computer).
 Cheers, Tom