iPad 2 failing to sign in because maximum number of free accounts have been activated

An individual device can be used to create only three new AppleID accounts. This is hard-coded in Apple’s back-end server infrastructure- and cannot be bypassed by the device. You can create another AppleID account, but not from a device that has already used its allocation.

This measure is intended to prevent account abuse. This limitation has absolutely no relationship to the number of devices signed-in with a current AppleID.

How to create a new Apple ID – Apple Support

If you still need assistance, having followed the link to create a new AppleID, you might be best advised to contact Apple Support. The link to Contact Support is at top-right of this page.

If you continue to experience difficulties, you might be best advised to seek assistance directly from from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page.

Alternatively, if you have access to another Apple device, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You can also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to assist:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

To fix it, you need to sign out of your Apple ID on the other devices.