I have an iPod Shuffle 3rd Gen. Whenever I connect it to my PC, open up iTunes, the status says that it's Preparing for Recovery but it only stays there. The iPod also doesn't show up in Windows Explorer.
iPhone 4, iOS 5.1.1
If you have not already, shut down (power off) your computer. Use this procedure to reset iPod shuffle.
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1655
Start up computer, with shuffle NOT connected. Run iTunes. Connect shuffle.
If you were connecting the shuffle to a USB hub, try using a direct port on the computer. You may also want to try disconnecting all other USB devices, except for standard mouse and keyboard, then connect shuffle.
if all else fails, uninstall itunes and all it's components in order as such:
Then download the latest version at www.apple.com/itunes....it is important that you uninstall in that order.
Preparing for Recovery Loop
