Can I use iPod for data storage like a harddrive?

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Can I use iPod for data storage like a harddrive?

I'd like to use an iPod for data storage (transfering from a PC to the iPod for a backup of large RAW photo files when traveling). Can I do this? Do I need to format my iPod for my Windows Laptop? (I do have a MacPro at home for my regular computer.)

Someday when I get a MacBook for my laptop, can I format my iPod back to a Mac format to work with it?

MacPro

Posted on Jan 18, 2008 12:00 PM

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Answer 1

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Zevoneer

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Jan 18, 2008 12:13 PM in response to gosmith

*Can I do this?*

Yes you can: Using your iPod as a storage drive

*Do I need to format my iPod for my Windows Laptop?*

Yes, if it's Mac formatted unless you install something like MacDrive on the PC so that Windows can read the drive you need to restore it in iTunes for Windows: MacDrive

*can I format my iPod back to a Mac format to work with it?*

Yes, restore it in iTunes for Mac. Restoring will erase and reformat the iPod's hard drive, reload the software and put it back to default settings. Once the restore is complete follow the on screen instructions to name the iPod and automatically sync your songs and videos onto the fresh installation. Press Done and the iPod will appear in iTunes and start to sync. If you want to update manually or using selected playlists uncheck the box beside the sync automatically instruction and press Done, it will default to manual mode and you can choose whatever setting you like: Restoring iPod to factory settings with iTunes 7

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Answer 2

gosmith Author

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Jan 18, 2008 12:14 PM in response to Zevoneer

When copying files on the drive, can I just click and drag them onto the iPod drive or do I have to go into iTunes and follow a procedure to copy the files? I'd be moving them from my PC harddrive on to iPod for backup storage?
Thanks.

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Answer 3

Zevoneer

Level 9

52,705 points

Jan 18, 2008 12:21 PM in response to gosmith

If it's just for back up you can drag them to the iPod through Windows Explorer (or Finder on the Mac) just like you would on a normal USB flash type drive. However I wouldn't use an iPod for any permanent storage. Don't forget that if you ever have problems with your iPod you may find you'll need to restore it to fix them and that will erase the drive. Relying on an iPod as your sole backup is not a good idea and external drives are comparatively inexpensive these days, you can get loads of storage for a reasonable outlay.

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Answer 4

gosmith Author

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Jan 18, 2008 1:25 PM in response to Zevoneer

It's just for temporary backup while I'm out traveling. When I get home, I transfer everything to regular harddrives (2 in different locations). I've just heard horror stories about losing data and that I should have two backups for photos. So I want to be safe and have 2 copies. Some places I go to are once-in-a-lifetime trips and I don't want to lose my photos because I only had 1 copy. Thats all.
Thanks

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Answer 5

turingtest2

Level 10

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Jan 18, 2008 2:54 PM in response to gosmith

You might find SyncToy 2.0 useful for managing those backups. It's quite easy to set it up so that it keeps 2 copies of a folder in sync with each other, with only new or updated files needing to be copied.

tt2

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Answer 6

Jan 18, 2008 4:28 PM in response to gosmith

IF you format your Pod for Windows, it will work on either a Pc or a Mac as an external drive on either system without the need for any other software. It works for me. Just another option.

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