cannot update ipad software using itunes on PC

DG205 Said:

"tried backup, and got an error message that it couldn't be completed because there isn't enough space. I will try a factory restore to clean on the gunk."

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Digging Deeper In:

Here is a User Tip I authored about a year ago now. I explains what this "back up and then restore" is all about. How to Clear "Other" in your iPhone's Storage - Use Backup - User Tip

About the User TiP: The goal of my User Tip is to clear boatloads of unneeded data (i.e. caches) that pile up on your device over time. So, read it, and you'l learn lost. It's pretty intriguing, actually, and is something that many out there have complemented me on.

For Reference:

My Full Library of my User Tips

I've authored 32 User Tips as of this post. The Link proving them all: TheLittles - User Tips - Apple Community

DG205 Said:

"cannot update ipad software using itunes on PC: ipad gen 6 doesn't have enough space to update ios, I have connected it to PC and run itunes but when clicking on the download and update button I get the error message that the ipad doesn't have enough space. Bit like going around in circles. Any advice, please?"

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Getting this Updated:

How to Update an iPad:

By using a compatible device, and reliable connection.

Verify Compatibility:

1. Go to: Settings
2. Tap: General
3. Tap: About
4. View: the model shown

Then, see if the device is shown here:

Go here iPad Models Compatible with iPadOS 15.2 - Apple Support

If compatible...

Use of a Computer to Update:

My User Tip: Making Use of a Computer for Updating an iOS Device - User Tip

DG205 Said:

"cannot update ipad software using itunes on PC: iPad model is compatible, and I have previously used iTunes to update to iOS 15.2.1 when storage on iPad was insufficient. Just that this time even after following same steps the error message keeps referring to storage on the iPad. It is a mystery."

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If Storage is Insufficient:

Make a backup of your iPad and then restore your iPad from it. There is apparently some junk on there that needs to be rid of.

If your internal storage is full, your only option is to better manage the storage that you have - and delete unused Apps or unneeded data. 

These support pages should prove to be helpful:

About storage on your device and in iCloud – Apple Support

What's the difference between device storage and iCloud storage? – Apple Support

Manage your iCloud storage – Apple Support

How to check the storage on your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch – Apple Support

Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

“Offloading” Apps can be a helpful method of creating temporary space for the software update.

https://9to5mac.com/2020/01/21/how-to-offload-apps-in-ios-to-save-space-without-deleting-their-data/

Additional information about creating sufficient space for installation of a software update can be found here:

If you need more space for an update on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

Updating your iPad using a PC or Mac computer can reduce the amount of free-space necessary to perform the update - as the initial download, unpacking and verification is performed on the computer prior to installation. However, even this method is not possible if your iPad has too little free space.

DG205 Said:

"tThat initially for commenting about junk on my hard drive. Factory reset got rid of that an software update went ahead without any further problems. Thanks again.”

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You are welcome.