Why doesn't my computer recognize my iPod when my external hard drive that has all of my iTunes files is connected?

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Level 1

8 points

Why doesn't my computer recognize my iPod when my external hard drive that has all of my iTunes files is connected?

I have been using a Seagate External Hard Drive to store all of my iTunes files for years. For some reason, if I connect my external drive to my laptop and open iTunes, my computer does not recognize my iPod. When I disconnect my hard drive and connect the iPod only, it shows up. Unfortunately, this means that I cannot sync and add new files since they are all on the hard drive. I thought it might just be a temporary glitch, but it has been several days now. Has anyone else experienced this?

iPod classic, Windows XP

Posted on Nov 9, 2012 7:15 PM

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Answer 1

planb77

Level 7

32,434 points

Nov 13, 2012 6:17 AM in response to Wannabett86

I assume iTunes is up to date? Are there any other available USB ports for you to plug the iPod into?

B-rock

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Answer 2

Wannabett86 Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 21, 2012 3:55 PM in response to planb77

Yes, iTunes is up-to-date. I even attached my iPod to another computer and restored it.Now having the problem with that computer too.

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Answer 3

planb77

Level 7

32,434 points

Nov 24, 2012 8:13 AM in response to Wannabett86

Now having the problem with that computer too.

You mean the iPod does not show up again when you connect the external Seagate HD?

B-rock

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Answer 4

Wannabett86 Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 24, 2012 11:55 AM in response to Wannabett86

Exactly.

I fiddled with my desktop and finally got it to restore and re-upload everything from the desktop but the laptop still Rita not recognize it at all, whether the external hard drive is connected or not.

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Answer 5

planb77

Level 7

32,434 points

Nov 24, 2012 12:57 PM in response to Wannabett86

So this setup previously worked correct? If so, what changed since the last time you were able to successfully still sync the iPod with your iTunes library? Was there a driver or iTunes up date?

To be honest, I"m a little low on ideas, but perhaps somebody else will come along and have more to offer...

B-rock

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Answer 6

Wannabett86 Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 24, 2012 3:00 PM in response to Wannabett86

Yeah, this set up has worked for years. Not sure if it was an update or what. I don't recall. It was literally fine one day and not the next. I thought it was a temporary glitch, but no dice.

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Answer 7

planb77

Level 7

32,434 points

Nov 24, 2012 3:01 PM in response to Wannabett86

Strange. I'm not really sure what it could be without us knowing what has changed since the last time it was working properly...

Sorry. Perhaps somebody else may come along and offer a tip or two. 🙂

B-rock

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