iPod Got You Down? Fixing Common iPod Problems

If the iPod craze hasn't hit you yet, it will! Be prepared with these issues and common concerns with setting up, using, and recharging your portable music system and you'll be sure to stay ahead of the game.

iPods have quickly become a worldwide phenomenon with their technological upgrades, ease of use, portability, and stylish design. Still, even the best things in the world have their bad days. Here are issues and answers to some of the most frequent iPod questions:

Issue: The battery is dead

Apple ensures that the following models will have the minimal playback times:
iPod mini: 8 hours
iPod: 12 hours
iPod Photo: 15 hours
iPod mini (2nd generation): 18 hours
iPod nano: 14 hours
New iPod: 20 hours

Your iPod battery should hold between a 75-80% charge after a period of time. Also keep in mind that it takes between 3-4 hours for the battery to charge, but most will charge to 80% in just one hour.

Issue: The iPod is showing an Unhappy iPod face

This is a sign your iPod is not connected to a compatible computer, or it needs to be repaired/restored.

Issue: The iPod won't turn on!

This can be a result of a few different things:

1. make sure the battery is charged; if the iPod has a low battery, a little battery icon will appear with a triangle exclamation on it.
2. the iPod needs to be reset. You can do this by turning the HOlD switch to 'off', connecting the adapter to an electrical outlet, then press and hold the PLAY and MENU button for about 5 seconds
3. make sure the Hold switch is off; it should be switched away from the headphone jack port

Issue: The battery ran out so quickly!

Just as with any clever gadget, using extras and additional features will drain the battery quickly. To get the most out of your iPod, adjust some of the settings. You can:

1. Change the backlight settings to off if you don't need it.
2. Use the Hold button when playing music
3. Make the most of playlists so you psend less time searching through menus
4. Disable the equalizer to create a level sound output that won't keep changing

Issue: My iPod is locked up or frozen!

This can mean that you need to upgrade your iTunes software, and reboot your iPod. Also, make sure the HOlD switch is not in 'locked' mode. Your battery may also need recharging, so do check the battery level.

Issue: The iPod is showing a Folder with exclamation point

This indicates that your battery may be low, you have installed the wrong software, or it may just need a reset.

Issue: The message "An unknown error has occurred (-36)"

This means that the iPod is not syncing with iTunes, and could be a result of damaged files, incompatible software, or a bad download. Try again, and make sure your software is up to date.

These are the most common problems with the Apple iPod, and different models will exhibit various instances throughout their lives. Remember to charge your batteries as often as you can, and use the tips above to save battery life. Take care of heat exposure and scratches by purchasing a protective case, and always download and use the most updated software!