ipod not recognized by itunes

Thank you for letting us know PaulBrush,

If those steps didn't work, you could try using a different Mac or Windows PC to rule out an issue with the connection between your iPod and the computer, or even try a different cable to connect the two.

If you still have issues at that point, options may be limited as this device is no longer supported by Apple and you may need to review these steps before Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty.

Hope that helps.

Take care.

Hello PaulBrush,

Thanks for that info and for choosing the Apple Support Communities. If we understand correctly, you are unable to get iTunes to recognize your iPod classic. To help with this, please make sure you are following these steps:

"Look in the Finder or iTunes

On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, look for your device in the sidebar of any window in the Finder.*

On a Mac with an earlier version of macOS, look for your device in iTunes.

On a PC with iTunes for Windows, look for your device in iTunes.

Learn more about viewing your device in the Finder or iTunes

Update the software on all devices

Update your iPhone or iPad

Update your Mac

Update your Windows PC

On your PC you might also need to update iTunes and update drivers.

Connect your device directly to your computer

Make sure that your device is unlocked and showing its Home Screen, then use a USB cable to connect it directly to your computer. Don't connect to a USB hub, display, or other device. 

If that doesn't help, disconnect your device and all other USB devices and accessories from your computer. Then reconnect only your device. 

Trust your computer, if asked

If you see a “Trust this Computer?” alert on your device when you plug it into your computer, tap Trust.

About the 'Trust This Computer' alert

Allow the accessory to connect

When connecting your device to a Mac laptop computer with Apple silicon, your Mac might ask whether you want to allow this accessory to connect. If so, allow it to connect.

Learn about allowing accessories to connect

Restart your devices

Restart your iPhone

Restart your iPad

Restart your Mac

Restart your Windows PC

Try a different port, cable, or computer

The issue could be related to your computer, its USB port, or the USB cable connecting it to your device. If possible, try a different computer, USB port, or USB cable. Also check for any debris in the charging port on the bottom of your iPhone or iPad.

Contact us

If your computer still doesn't recognize your iPhone or iPad, contact Apple Support."

And that info is from this Apple resource: If your computer doesn't recognize your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Cheers!